url,title,date,year,month,party,chamber,state,member_name,bioguide_id,domain,scraper,source,date_source,text,has_text,collected_at,updated_at https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-colleagues-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-crack-down-on-pharmacy-benefit-managers-price-gouging,"Kaine, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Crack Down on Pharmacy Benefit Managers’ Price Gouging",2025-12-22,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,VA,Tim Kaine,K000384,www.kaine.senate.gov,kaine,https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA), a member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee, and colleagues introduced the bipartisan, bicameral PBM Fiduciary Accountability, Integrity, and Reform (FAIR) Act, legislation that would establish fiduciary responsibilities for pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs)—the middlemen of drug pricing—and require PBMs to act in the best interests of employees relying on employer-sponsored health plans, while keeping plan costs low. “Pharmacy benefit managers should be held accountable for their role in raising costs of prescription drugs,” said Kaine. “This bipartisan legislation is critical to ensuring that PBMs are doing what’s best for Americans who rely on lifesaving medication.” Currently, PBMs that provide drug benefits for employer health plans often get away with price-gouging because they are not legally required to put employees’ interests first. The PBM Fair Act would ensure PBMs are classified as fiduciaries under law—thereby helping to curb hidden fees and end practices that drive up what employees pay for their medications. To ensure employer-sponsored health care plans are affordable and accessible to all families, this bill would specifically rein in bad PBM practices, such as: Marking up generic drugs at prices hundreds of times higher than actual cost; Limiting patient choice; and Denying claims with no or misleading explanations. In addition to Kaine, this bill is introduced by U.S. Senators Roger Marshall (R-KS), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), and Chuck Grassley (R-IA). Companion legislation is led in the House by U.S. Representatives Jake Auchincloss (D-MA-04) and Ryan Mackenzie (R-PA-07). Full text of the bill is available here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/warner-kaine-scott-slam-trump-administrations-sudden-halt-of-virginia-offshore-wind-project,"Warner, Kaine, Scott Slam Trump Administration’s Sudden Halt of Virginia Offshore Wind Project",2025-12-22,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,VA,Tim Kaine,K000384,www.kaine.senate.gov,kaine,https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine along with U.S. Representative Bobby Scott (all D-VA) issued the following statement: “Despite our senior roles on the Senate Intelligence and Armed Services Committees, the administration has failed to share any new information that supports this sudden and sweeping move to halt all offshore wind development, including a project off the coast of Virginia that is already almost complete and operational. That silence speaks volumes, especially given the president’s longstanding, well-documented opposition to offshore wind – and the promises he’s made to his donors to put his thumb on the scale against certain energy projects. This reckless, haphazard approach puts billions of dollars in private investment at risk, threatens thousands of good-paying American jobs coming to a veteran-heavy area, undermines energy security, and damages the credibility of the United States government. Virginia’s offshore wind project has undergone years of rigorous review and represents a critical step toward strengthening our energy independence, lowering energy costs for American families, growing our clean energy economy, and positioning the Commonwealth as a global leader in this industry. When a project that has met every requirement is suddenly stopped without explanation, it is fair to ask whether this decision is being driven by evidence, or by personal and political grievance.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=BFA83056-C5DC-4E10-8A48-96069B461ED1,"Warner, Kaine, Scott Slam Trump Administration's Sudden Halt of Virginia Offshore Wind Project",2025-12-22,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,VA,Mark R. Warner,W000805,www.warner.senate.gov,warner,https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine along with U.S. Rep. Bobby Scott (all D-VA) issued the following statement: “Despite our senior roles on the Senate Intelligence and Armed Services Committees, the administration has failed to share any new information that supports this sudden and sweeping move to halt all offshore wind development, including a project off the coast of Virginia that is already almost complete and operational. That silence speaks volumes, especially given the president’s longstanding, well-documented opposition to offshore wind – and the promises he’s made to his donors to put his thumb on the scale against certain energy projects. This reckless, haphazard approach puts billions of dollars in private investment at risk, threatens thousands of good-paying American jobs coming to a veteran-heavy area, undermines energy security, and damages the credibility of the United States government. Virginia’s offshore wind project has undergone years of rigorous review and represents a critical step toward strengthening our energy independence, lowering energy costs for American families, growing our clean energy economy, and positioning the Commonwealth as a global leader in this industry. When a project that has met every requirement is suddenly stopped without explanation, it is fair to ask whether this decision is being driven by evidence, or by personal and political grievance.” ### * High-quality photographs of Sen. Mark R. Warner are available for downloadhere*",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/warner-kaine-announce-lease-for-new-hampton-roads-va-facility,"Warner, Kaine Announce Lease for New Hampton Roads VA Facility",2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,VA,Tim Kaine,K000384,www.kaine.senate.gov,kaine,https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) announced that a lease has been awarded for a new Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) medical facility in Hampton Roads. The awarding of this lease for a new, state-of-the-art outpatient clinic will improve veterans’ access to care in this region and follows years of congressional action and advocacy by the senators. “We are thrilled to announce the awarding of this new clinic lease in Hampton Roads,” said the senators. “The veteran population in the region continues to grow, and this facility will fill a critical gap by expanding access to high-quality, convenient care for the veterans who have served our country. Virginians need and deserve this facility, and we will do everything we can to ensure that it is properly staffed despite President Trump’s plans to eliminate 35,000 health care positions at VA facilities across America.” While this lease was originally authorized under the PACT Act, which both senators strongly supported, updated cost estimates and rent bids prompted the VA and the General Services Administration (GSA) to seek reauthorization from four congressional committees for this proposed facility and 17 others. In June, Warner and Kaine urged the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works to swiftly take up and reapprove all pending major VA medical facility leases. They subsequently pushed for the final committee, the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee, to put forward their approval. In late July, the senators announced that approval for the leases had cleared all committees. From there, the administration needed to award a contract for the lease. Warner and Kaine have long fought to expand health care access and benefits for Virginia’s nearly 700,000 veterans. The senators have fought to strengthen and expand mental health care and suicide prevention efforts for veterans. Warner has been outspoken on the need to reduce the disability claim backlog at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), ensure the VA is appropriately staffed to improve access to care and benefits, strengthen the VA’s ability to increase capacity and build new medical centers, and improve women veterans’ access to health care. Kaine has called President Trump out for firing more veterans than any other president, and has introduced legislation to reinstate veterans who were fired from their federal jobs as part of the Trump Administration’s indiscriminate and mass layoff of federal employees. Kaine has also been a vocal opponent of the Trump Administration’s decision to eliminate 35,000 health care positions at VA clinics. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=56F51368-CB85-4FEF-AA2F-375079895314,Warner Statement on Trump Failure to Release Full Epstein Files,2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,VA,Mark R. Warner,W000805,www.warner.senate.gov,warner,https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases,scraper,"Today, U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) released the following statement after the Trump administration released only part of the Epstein files: “Under the law, Donald Trump had 30 days to release all of the Epstein files. Today marks day 30. Where are the full Epstein files?”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=74B009EC-7AF0-4771-8F1C-CBA26210AADA,"Warner, Kaine Announce Lease for New Hampton Roads VA Facility",2025-12-19,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,VA,Mark R. Warner,W000805,www.warner.senate.gov,warner,https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) announced that a lease has been awarded for a new Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) medical facility in Hampton Roads. The awarding of this lease for a new, state-of-the-art outpatient clinic will improve veterans’ access to care in this region and follows years of congressional action and advocacy by the senators. “We are thrilled to announce the awarding of this new clinic lease in Hampton Roads,” said the senators. “The veteran population in the region continues to grow, and this facility will fill a critical gap by expanding access to high-quality, convenient care for the veterans who have served our country. Virginians need and deserve this facility, and we will do everything we can to ensure that it is properly staffed despite President Trump’s plans to eliminate 35,000 health care positions at VA facilities across America.” While this lease was originally authorized under the PACT Act, which both senators strongly supported, updated cost estimates and rent bids prompted the VA and the General Services Administration (GSA) to seek reauthorization from four congressional committees for this proposed facility and 17 others. In June, Sens. Warner and Kaine urged the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works to swiftly take up and reapprove all pending major VA medical facility leases. They subsequently pushed for the final committee, the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee, to put forward their approval. In late July, the senators announced that approval for the leases had cleared all committees. From there, the administration needed to award a contract for the lease. Sens. Warner and Kaine have long fought to expand health care access and benefits for Virginia’s nearly 700,000 veterans. The senators have fought to strengthen and expand mental health care and suicide prevention efforts for veterans. Sen. Warner has been outspoken on the need to reduce the disability claim backlog at the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), ensure the VA is appropriately staffed to improve access to care and benefits, strengthen the VA’s ability to increase capacity and build new medical centers, and improve women veterans’ access to health care. Sen. Kaine has called President Trump out for firing more veterans than any other president, and has introduced legislation to reinstate veterans who were fired from their federal jobs as part of the Trump Administration’s indiscriminate and mass layoff of federal employees. Sen. Kaine has also been a vocal opponent of the Trump Administration’s decision to eliminate 35,000 health care positions at VA clinics. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-and-young-applaud-bipartisan-bill-to-formally-end-iraq-wars-becoming-law,Kaine & Young Applaud Bipartisan Bill to Formally End Iraq Wars Becoming Law,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,VA,Tim Kaine,K000384,www.kaine.senate.gov,kaine,https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA) and Todd Young (R-IN) applauded the repeal of the 1991 and 2002 Authorizations for Use of Military Force (AUMFs) against Iraq. Kaine and Young’s bipartisan legislation to repeal these AUMFs was included in the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which was signed by the President today. “The repeal of the 1991 and 2002 Authorizations for Use of Military Force against Iraq—the first repeal of an authorization in more than 50 years—is historic. It allows the American people, including the generations of servicemembers who served in Iraq, to finally close the book on this part of our nation’s history,” said Kaine, a member of the Senate Armed Services and Foreign Relations Committees. “There have been too many instances of Congress abdicating its role in matters of war and peace, but the repeal of these AUMFs is a significant step forward in reclaiming our solemn constitutional responsibility and saying no to forever endless wars. I’m thankful to the cosponsors of this legislation and my colleagues for fulfilling our duty, to the President for signing the legislation into law, and to the many advocates, veterans, and military families who worked tirelessly alongside us to get this done.” “It’s time to close the book on these forever wars once and for all,” said Young, a member of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence. “This is an important step of what I like to call legislative hygiene, for Congress to formally end these two wars. The 1991 and 2002 AUMFs are no longer necessary and leaving them on the books carries risk of potential misuse. I want to thank my Congressional colleagues and President Trump for supporting this legislation and specifically thank Senator Kaine for his partnership on this effort for many years. Finally, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to all of the men and women who served in these two conflicts. We honor your service and sacrifice.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-mccormick-introduce-legislation-to-preserve-and-protect-americas-historic-battlefields,"Kaine, McCormick Introduce Legislation to Preserve and Protect America’s Historic Battlefields",2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,VA,Tim Kaine,K000384,www.kaine.senate.gov,kaine,https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA) and Dave McCormick introduced the American Battlefield Protection Program Amendments Act of 2025, bipartisan legislation to strengthen the preservation of historic battlefields associated with wars fought on American soil. “From Yorktown to Appomattox to the Pentagon, the map of Virginia is a map of America’s military history,” said Kaine. “Especially as we come up on America’s 250th birthday, it’s critical that we ensure our country’s battlefields are preserved, so future generations can visit and learn about their importance. Last year, the President signed my bipartisan bill, the American Battlefield Protection Program Enhancement Act, into law to help us do that. I’m glad to work alongside Senator McCormick to build on that progress by further supporting the program.” “From the Revolutionary War to the Civil War, Pennsylvania’s battlefields stand as powerful reminders of pivotal moments that shaped our nation’s history and our future,” said Dave McCormick. “By preserving and protecting these sacred battlefields, we honor the contributions of all Americans, educate future generations, and drive increased economic benefits for local communities by attracting visitors eager to learn and explore.” Specifically, the American Battlefield Protection Program Amendments Act will: Reauthorize the American Battlefield Protection Program (ABPP) through 2035, Increase federal support for nonprofit preservation efforts by increasing the cost-share from 50 percent to 75 percent, Direct the National Park Service and the Department of the Interior to prepare studies of sites connected to the French and Indian War and the Mexican-American War, and Authorize $20 million each fiscal year through 2035. As our nation approaches its 250th anniversary, the American Battlefield Protection Program Amendments Act of 2025 plays a critical role in honoring America’s history, commemorating pivotal milestones, and ensuring these renowned sites are preserved for future generations. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-statement-on-fiscal-year-2026-national-defense-bill-becoming-law,Kaine Statement on Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Bill Becoming Law,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,VA,Tim Kaine,K000384,www.kaine.senate.gov,kaine,https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) and Ranking Member of the SASC Subcommittee on Seapower, released the following statement after the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which includes key provisions Kaine secured to advance U.S. national security, support servicemembers and their families, boost Virginia’s defense industry, and strengthen relations with allies and partners, was signed into law: “I’m glad that this year’s bipartisan defense bill was signed into law today. It includes key provisions I secured to improve quality of life for servicemembers, get our shipbuilding programs back on track, and strengthen our alliances around the world. It also repeals the 1991 and 2002 Authorizations for Use of Military Force—a historic victory for all Americans, especially the veterans of the Iraq wars. I will continue working with my colleagues on the Senate Armed Services Committee to support our military members and families and advance our national security.” During the SASC markup of the FY26 NDAA, an amendment to restore the names of three Virginia military bases to those chosen by a bipartisan commission was passed by voice vote. The House Armed Services Committee similarly passed an amendment to restore the names of all military bases on a bipartisan basis. However, the provisions were removed at the last minute because President Trump indicated that he would veto the entire defense bill over it like he did in 2020. Kaine successfully secured the following provisions: Pay Raises, Allowances, and Workforce Recruitment: Authorizes a 3.8 percent pay raise for military personnel. Directs the Secretary of Defense to ensure that pay statements for military servicemembers include clear descriptions for each type of pay, allowance, and deduction. Provides the Secretary of Defense with direct hiring authority for up to 60 graduates of the Defense Civilian Training Corps (DCTC) every calendar year and requires a report to Congress on the use of this hiring authority. DCTC is a pilot program that recruits and trains college students for careers as Department of Defense civilian employees. Repeal of 1991 and 2002 Authorizations for Use of Military Force (AUMFs): Includes bipartisan legislation led by Kaine and Senator Todd Young (R-IN) to repeal the 1991 and 2002 AUMFs and formally end the Iraq wars. The legislation was included in the House and Senate's version of this year’s NDAA. Aviation Safety: Requires that all aircraft of the Department of Defense that operate near commercial airports be equipped with broadcast positioning technology with some exceptions for certain training exercises that are complicated by this technology. Requires that the Department of Defense improve how it shares aviation safety data with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). This comes in response to the January 29, 2025 collision between an Army Black Hawk helicopter and American Airlines flight 5342 near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) that took the lives of 67 people. Kaine shaped the original version of this provision, which was later altered during the conference process. He has emphasized that the final version of the provision is only an intermediate step, and that he will work with colleagues to incorporate recommendations from the forthcoming National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and Army investigations in future legislation, including legislation to remove slots from DCA. Shipbuilding Investments: Authorizes procurement of naval surface vessels, including Medium Landing Ships. Authorizes increased funding for one Virginia-class submarine. Authorizes procurement of five Columbia-class submarines. Requires the Secretary of the Navy to move leadership for surface ship maintenance at private shipyards to Type Commanders and directs a new contracting strategy that emphasizes workforce stability and collaborative planning. Exempts the public shipyard workforce from reductions related to spending cuts or reprogramming of funds and protects personnel on probationary status. Contaminated Wells Relocation Act: Includes Kaine’s bipartisan, bicameral legislation to authorize NASA to negotiate an agreement with the Town of Chincoteague to address costs associated with relocating contaminated water wells, reimburse for those identified costs, and provide more local control of the water supply to the Town of Chincoteague. Several of the Town’s wells are located on NASA property and have been contaminated with per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). While the well water is currently being treated to remove PFAS and is safe to drink, these treatments must occur regularly, which is an ongoing cost for NASA. This bill offers a permanent solution to resolve the contamination management hurdle while saving the federal government money. Military Construction: Authorizes $890,460,000 for military construction (MILCON) in Virginia. $380,000,000 for Public-Private Venture (PPV) unaccompanied housing for junior enlisted sailors stationed at Naval Station Norfolk, Naval Air Station Oceana, Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story, and Newport News Shipyard. Part of this funding will be used to construct a housing facility for 1,500 sailors near Newport News Shipyard. Kaine has advocated for better housing for sailors near the shipyard to improve quality of life following multiple suicides by sailors assigned to the USS George Washington during its long maintenance and refueling overhaul. $188,000,000 for Dry Dock 3 modernization at Norfolk Naval Shipyard. $93,300,000 for Electric Distribution System upgrades at Naval Station Norfolk. $71,700,000 for weapons magazines at Naval Weapons Station Yorktown. $63,500,000 for a Water Treatment Plant at Marine Corps Base Quantico. $34,000,000 for operations center at the Pentagon. $20,400,000 for MQ-25 facilities at Naval Station Norfolk. $15,500,000 for an Aircraft Maintenance Hangar at Virginia Army National Guard’s Army Aviation Support Facility in Sandston. $12,360,000 for a Child Development Center at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story. $11,700,000 for a Child Development Center at Naval Station Norfolk. Military Housing: Authorizes increased funding to construct, repair, and improve enlisted barracks across the services. Requires the Secretary of Defense to publish a clear, accessible document that explains how Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) rates are determined. Requires the Secretary of Defense to develop an alternative methodology for calculating BAH based on the typical cost of housing units by number of bedrooms, conduct a pilot program using the new methodology, and brief Congress on the findings. Requires the Secretary of Defense to include additional oversight mechanisms for any renegotiation of the contract under the Global Household Goods Contract or negotiation of a new contract under the Global Household Goods Contract of any successor program or contract. Health Care: Expands efforts to mitigate and treat traumatic brain injuries and blast overpressure-related injuries. Requires the Secretary of Defense to authorize military medical treatment facilities to provide sexual assault medical forensic examinations to all victims, not just those who are eligible under TRICARE. Requires the National Guard Bureau to provide an annual report on the number of Guardsmen who participate in Sexual Assault Prevention and Response (SAPR) training per year. Requires the establishment of a demonstration program to expand partnerships between the Department of Defense and Department of Veterans Affairs medical facilities for the purpose of increasing case volume for graduate medical education programs. Military Families: Authorizes funding for child care fee assistance programs to eliminate fee assistance wait lists for eligible families. Requires the Secretary of Defense to improve staffing of special education teachers and staff and improve special education offerings at Department of Defense Education Activity (DODEA) schools. Requires an update to existing DODEA regulations on the student use of portable electronic mobile devices in DODEA schools to prohibit disruption in the learning environment. Authorizes funding for Impact Aid, including funding to support military children with severe disabilities. Impact Aid reimburses school districts for the cost of educating children who reside on military installations or have a parent that works on a military installation or federal property. Because military families may not pay certain state or local taxes where they are stationed, Impact Aid helps offset these costs to support schools. Oversight of Military Action in Caribbean: Fences certain travel funding for the Secretary of Defense until he provides unredacted videos of all strikes that have occurred in Latin America as well as copies of all classified Execute Orders (EXORDS) issued by the Department of Defense. European Security, NATO, and Ukraine: Prohibits a reduction in U.S. military posture in Europe or relinquishment of U.S. command of the Supreme Allied Commander Europe position until the Secretary of Defense assesses the impact on U.S. and NATO and certifies to Congress that such action is in the national interest. Authorizes funding for the NATO Security Investment Program. Extends and authorizes funding for the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative. Requires the Secretary of Defense to deliver a report on acceleration options for the JUMPSTART initiative, which allows European partners to purchase weapons for Ukraine from U.S. defense companies. Australia-U.K.-U.S. (AUKUS) Partnership: Includes Kaine’s bipartisan legislation with Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) to strengthen the AUKUS agreement by streamlining defense industrial base collaboration and co-production of Virginia-class submarines. Directs further collaboration between the AUKUS countries on IT infrastructure and directs the Department of Defense to provide an update on who it has assigned to be the senior civilian defense official to lead the U.S. work on this agreement and continue the updates required by the FY24 NDAA. Taiwan: Authorizes funding for the Taiwan Security Cooperation Initiative and directs the Department of Defense to engage with Taiwan to develop a joint program to codevelop and coproduce uncrewed and counter-uncrewed capabilities. U.S. Posture in Indo-Pacific: Authorizes funding for the Pacific Deterrence Initiative (PDI), which enhances U.S. force posture, infrastructure, readiness, capacity, and capabilities in the Indo-Pacific. Prohibits a reduction in U.S. military posture on the Korean Peninsula or a change in wartime operational control over the Combined Forces Command until the Secretary of Defense certifies to Congress that such action is in the national interest. Directs an initiative to strengthen security cooperation across the respective defense industrial bases of U.S. allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific. Philippines Enhanced Resilience Act (PERA) Act: Includes Kaine’s bipartisan legislation with Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN) to strengthen and modernize the U.S.-Philippines alliance through increased U.S. security assistance. Combating PRC Overseas and Unlawful Networked Threats through Enhanced Resilience (COUNTER) Act: Includes Kaine’s bipartisan legislation with Senators Chris Coons (D-DE) and Pete Ricketts (R-NE) to limit the PRC’s attempts to strengthen its global reach by expanding its overseas basing efforts. Korean American Divided Families National Registry Act: Includes Kaine’s bipartisan legislation with Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) to help reunite Korean Americans who have been separated from their relatives in North Korea since the Korean War. Haiti Criminal Collusion Transparency Act: Includes Kaine’s bipartisan legislation with Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Rick Scott (R-FL), John Curtis (R-UT), and Chris Coons (D-DE) to address ongoing gang violence in Haiti. Israel: Authorizes funding for the Israeli Cooperative Missile Defense Program, including the Iron Dome, David’s Sling, and Arrow. Since February 2024, Kaine has called for the transfer of defensive, rather than offensive, weapons to Israel in order to prevent further escalation that puts civilians and U.S. servicemembers in the region at risk. Uncrewed Aircraft Systems: Provides authorities for the protection of military installations, nuclear facilities, and key infrastructure from unmanned aerial systems. This comes after several drone incursions over Langley Air Force Base and other sites in Hampton Roads in December 2023. Requires the Department of Defense to develop a roadmap for the small, unmanned aircraft system (sUAS) industrial base to support existing sUAS programs. Requires a briefing on the plan for installation commanders to engage UAS on U.S. military installations by both kinetic and non-kinetic means. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/video-kaine-slams-trumps-reckless-and-corrupt-decision-to-allow-nvidia-to-sell-advanced-chips-to-china,Video: Kaine Slams Trump’s Reckless & Corrupt Decision to Allow Nvidia to Sell Advanced Chips to China,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,VA,Tim Kaine,K000384,www.kaine.senate.gov,kaine,https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news,scraper,"FULL VIDEO OF KAINE’S SPEECH IS AVAILABLE HERE. WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA), a member of the Senate Armed Services and Foreign Relations Committees, spoke on the Senate floor sounding the alarm about the Trump Administration’s dangerous decision to allow Nvidia to sell advanced H200 chips to Chinese commercial customers and the threat this poses to U.S. national security. Kaine has spoken out about how this sale would allow China to use H200 chips to erode America’s advantage in artificial intelligence (AI), expand Chinese military capabilities, and threaten the U.S. and our allies. “I rise today to express deep concern and frustration over President Trump’s decision to approve the sale of advanced Nvidia H200 AI chips to the People’s Republic of China,” said Kaine. “I am worried that the transfer of these chips will compromise U.S. security and enable the People’s Republic of China to catch up in one area where the U.S. has a significant and very qualitative advantage over the PRC.” “For decades, under administrations of both parties, the United States has adhered to a simple principle: we do not sell our most advanced security-critical technology to adversaries. That principle exists for a reason,” Kaine said. “Advanced semiconductors like Nvidia's H200 chip are not consumer gadgets. They're matters of national security. They're the foundation of the future of warfare. They are our edge—the United States’ edge in the development of the technologies of the future.” Kaine continued, “Right now, that future is up for grabs.” “We protect our chips because they preserve America's advantage in space, cyberspace and importantly, nuclear deterrence,” Kaine said. “The H200 is used to train and deploy frontier AI systems—systems that U.S. national security agencies have long warned have numerous military and intelligence applications.” “Even the CEO of China’s leading AI firm has admitted publicly that the access to advanced chips is their biggest bottleneck,” continued Kaine. “President Trump is now solving this problem for China.” “The Administration claims that in exchange … the United States will receive a share of the revenue,” said Kaine. “…But that admission should alarm us. Decisions that were once made purely on our national security priorities are now apparently up for sale, and the Administration’s justification that this will somehow keep China hooked on U.S. technology doesn’t withstand normal scrutiny… They’ll take these chips, reverse engineer them, and produce their own, and wipe out the edge that we now have with China in this critical defense technology.” “I’m very, very nervous that the President is bartering away this edge and may barter away other edges to those who are lobbying and contributing to him. And this is a pattern we’ve seen—transactional politics jeopardizing our security,” Kaine said. “China is reaping … the rewards of this. They're already leading or rapidly catching up in so many critical industries. Why would we give up an edge in this one? The American people are watching this play out. They're particularly concerned about China, about China's advances, and about [the United States] giving up the edge we have over China in this key area.” Kaine concluded, “That’s why I’ve signed on with many in this body… to Senators Ricketts and Coons’ SAFE Chips Act, which would insist upon rigorous export controls over these chips, particularly as they might be transferred to China, the People’s Republic of North Korea, Iran, and Russia… I urge my colleagues to get on board with this legislation and make sure that we don’t harm our national security by transferring technologies of such incredible importance to our country.” Last week, in a Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing, Kaine expressed his concern regarding the Nvidia sale and pressed witnesses on whether the State Department, Department of Defense, and other national security agencies should have more of a role to play in this decision. Kaine also strongly supports the Secure and Feasible Exports (SAFE) of Chips Act of 2025, bipartisan legislation that would codify into law current limitations and controls for advanced AI chip sales to foreign adversaries. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/warner-kaine-mcgarvey-introduce-bill-to-support-families-of-mine-workers-who-died-of-black-lung-disease,"Warner, Kaine, McGarvey Introduce Bill to Support Families of Mine Workers Who Died of Black Lung Disease",2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,VA,Tim Kaine,K000384,www.kaine.senate.gov,kaine,https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) introduced the Relief for Survivors of Miners Act, legislation that would remove barriers to benefits and ensure that families of miners who have died from black lung are properly compensated. A companion bill was introduced by U.S. Representative Morgan McGarvey (D-KY-03) in the U.S. House of Representatives. “Grieving families in Virginia’s mining communities shouldn’t have to worry about fighting red tape or taking on hefty financial burdens,” said Warner. “I’m proud to stand alongside Rep. McGarvey and reintroduce the Relief for Survivors of Miners Act, which will ensure that families struggling with the loss of a loved one receive the benefits they deserve.” “Miners take on enormous burdens to power our communities, and it’s unacceptable that many families of deceased miners are struggling to access their benefits,” said Kaine. “These families deserve our care and support, which is why we’re introducing this bill to cut red tape and make it easier for them to secure critical resources they need.” “When families are navigating the grief of losing a loved one and the financial worries that come with it, they shouldn’t be subjected to a lengthy and expensive legal process just to prove what we already know: miners work in dangerous conditions to power this country and pay for it with their own health and lives,” said McGarvey. “The burden should be on the coal companies, not grieving widows, to either prove there’s no connection to black lung or pay these families what they’re owed as a small step towards addressing the irreparable harm miners endured on the job. I’m grateful to Senator Warner for staying in this fight and doing everything we can to make it easier for these families to get the benefits they’ve more than earned.” Specifically, the Relief for Survivors of Miners Act would: Re-establish a pre-1981 “rebuttable presumption” that a miner who died from respiratory-related conditions had died due to black lung if the miner was previously disabled due to black lung. Improve legal representation by paying attorneys’ fees and medical expenses incurred during the claims process. Request a Government Accountability Office report on the financial impact of these payments and other ways to improve the claims process and benefits for survivors. Research has shown that repeated exposure to coal dust and other materials puts miners at risk of developing black lung disease. Inhaling dust scars the lungs, impairs breathing, and other respiratory complications that can have life-altering consequences and lead to disability and death. Under current law, miners’ surviving dependents can claim monthly payments and medical benefits through the Black Lung Benefits Act of 1972, but must prove black lung substantially contributed to the miner’s death, even if the miner was diagnosed with black lung and died of respiratory illness, imposing a heavy legal and financial burden on survivors’ families who lack the resources of mine operators and their lawyers. The bill text can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=5998FBDD-C1D4-4E7D-9393-0EA1990B9D2E,Warner & Justice Introduce Legislation to Make Child Care More Affordable,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,VA,Mark R. Warner,W000805,www.warner.senate.gov,warner,https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) and Jim Justice (D-WV) introduced the Child Care Supply Tax Credit Act, bipartisan legislation to address the nationwide shortage of child care options. Through the creation of a new commonsense tax credit, this legislation would help providers attract and retain qualified staff, thereby tackling one of the key contributors to the child care affordability crisis: the industry’s workforce challenges. This legislation comes as child care costs continue to surge around the country, often outpacing the rate of overall inflation. In West Virginia, the cost of day care for one toddler and one infant has surpassed $20,000 per year. In Virginia, that cost has surpassed $30,700 per year. “From health care premiums to groceries to utility bills, life is only getting more and more expensive for American families, and for many, the math simply doesn’t work without affordable child care,” said Sen. Warner. “Child care is the foundation that allows parents to earn a living while providing kids with the head start they deserve. I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan legislation to address the workforce challenges contributing to our nation’s child care crisis."" “Childcare providers simply can’t afford to pay their workers enough without passing those high costs on to parents. Families in West Virginia and across the country are spending thousands of dollars just to secure reliable childcare - it must be addressed. By creating a targeted tax credit tied directly to caregiver wages, we can pay the people who take care of our kids what they deserve while giving our hard-working families some breathing room,” said Sen. Justice. In the U.S., child care workers earn less than the typical worker despite a high level of responsibility and demanding training requirements. These low wages lead to high turnover and difficulty in recruitment, ultimately resulting in fewer available classroom slots and higher costs for families. The bipartisan Child Care Supply Tax Credit Act creates a new tax credit for eligible child care facilities to help offset the cost of employee wages, incentivizing higher pay for workers who directly care for children, while preventing the benefit from going toward administrative overhead. Bill text of this legislation is available here. A one-pager is available here. ### * High-quality photographs of Sen. Mark R. Warner are available for downloadhere*",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=71B56CE2-8F76-498E-BD37-1B785DEFD367,"Warner, Kaine, McGarvey Introduce Bill to Support Families of Mine Workers who Died of Black Lung Disease",2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,VA,Mark R. Warner,W000805,www.warner.senate.gov,warner,https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) introduced the Relief for Survivors of Miners Act, legislation that would remove barriers to benefits and ensure that families of miners who have died from black lung are properly compensated. A companion bill was introduced by Rep. Morgan McGarvey (D-KY-03) in the U.S. House of Representatives. “Grieving families in Virginia’s mining communities shouldn’t have to worry about fighting red tape or taking on hefty financial burdens,” said Sen. Warner. “I’m proud to stand alongside Rep. McGarvey and reintroduce the Relief for Survivors of Miners Act, which will ensure that families struggling with the loss of a loved one receive the benefits they deserve.” “Miners take on enormous burdens to power our communities, and it’s unacceptable that many families of deceased miners are struggling to access their benefits,” said Sen. Kaine. “These families deserve our care and support, which is why we’re introducing this bill to cut red tape and make it easier for them to secure critical resources they need.” “When families are navigating the grief of losing a loved one and the financial worries that come with it, they shouldn’t be subjected to a lengthy and expensive legal process just to prove what we already know: miners work in dangerous conditions to power this country and pay for it with their own health and lives,” said Rep. McGarvey. “The burden should be on the coal companies, not grieving widows, to either prove there’s no connection to black lung or pay these families what they’re owed as a small step towards addressing the irreparable harm miners endured on the job. I’m grateful to Senator Warner for staying in this fight and doing everything we can to make it easier for these families to get the benefits they’ve more than earned.” Specifically, the Relief for Survivors of Miners Act would: Re-establish a pre-1981 “rebuttable presumption” that a miner who died from respiratory-related conditions had died due to black lung if the miner was previously disabled due to black lung. Improve legal representation by paying attorneys’ fees and medical expenses incurred during the claims process. Request a Government Accountability Office report on the financial impact of these payments and other ways to improve the claims process and benefits for survivors. Research has shown that repeated exposure to coal dust and other materials puts miners at risk of developing black lung disease. Inhaling dust scars the lungs, impairs breathing, and other respiratory complications that can have life-altering consequences and lead to disability and death. Under current law, miners’ surviving dependents can claim monthly payments and medical benefits through the Black Lung Benefits Act of 1972, but must prove black lung substantially contributed to the miner’s death, even if the miner was diagnosed with black lung and died of respiratory illness, imposing a heavy legal and financial burden on survivors’ families who lack the resources of mine operators and their lawyers. The bill text can be found here. ### * High-quality photographs of Sen. Mark R. Warner are available for downloadhere*",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=A7854C48-E60A-490D-B61B-5E60A53AC73E,Warner Leads Bipartisan Effort to Push FTC to Crack Down on Surveillance Pricing With Holiday Shopping Season Underway,2025-12-18,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,VA,Mark R. Warner,W000805,www.warner.senate.gov,warner,https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, in the thick of the holiday shopping season, U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) led Sens. Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Richard Blumental (D-CT), and Josh Hawley (R-MO) in pushing the Trump administration to crack down on surveillance pricing, which eliminates a fixed or static price in favor of prices that are specially tailored to an individual consumer’s willingness to pay. As part of this letter, the senators highlight a 2024 Federal Trade Commission (FTC) study that found companies used “a wide range of personal data to set individualized consumer prices.” That study was shut down by FTC chair Andrew Ferguson, who cancelled the public comment period, effectively ending the study in January. “As the FTC has documented, businesses are increasingly using personal data, such as demographic information, precise location, or even web browsing history, to target individual consumers with different prices for the same goods and services. Surveillance pricing builds upon not only the data that a company holds on a prospective customer, but also data purchased from shady data brokers,” wrote the senators. “Recent concerns about surveillance pricing for airline tickets illustrate the dangers of this highly intrusive – and for consumers financially burdensome – practice. Fetcherr, an A.I. analytics company, suggested it was developing pricing algorithms for airlines that would target individuals with specific prices that consider “factors like customer lifetime value, past purchase behaviors, and the real-time context of each booking inquiry” to drive up revenue.” As part of this letter, the senators highlighted the Biden-era FTC study, which examined how companies tracked consumer behaviors – including a person’s precise location, browser history, and even mouse movements on a webpage – to inform their surveillance pricing tactics. “The Commission had already begun a comprehensive market investigation into surveillance pricing under its Section 6(b) authority and issued a preliminary staff report on its findings. The 6(b) study explored the use cases and industries in which surveillance pricing is occurring and has helped reveal some of the details of this opaque business,” the senators continued. “The FTC found within its requests at least 250 businesses including grocery stores, apparel retailers, health and beauty retailers, home goods and furnishing stores, convenience stores, and hardware stores had adopted surveillance pricing strategies. Consumers deserve a fair playing field, where they’re not at the mercy of amorphous data brokers capturing their data and using it to determine their maximum financial pain point for a good or service. We urge the Commission to publish its Section 6(b) study on surveillance pricing and then take rulemaking and enforcement actions to reign in this exploitative practice.” This effort follows strong leadership from Sens. Warner, Gallego and Blumenthal, who earlier this year demanded answers from Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian after the company announced its plans to ramp up use of Artificial Intelligence to set surveillance-based ticket prices. The full text of the letter is available here and below: The Honorable Andrew N. Ferguson Chairman Federal Trade Commission 600 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20580 Dear Chairman Ferguson: We write to express our concern with the practice of “surveillance pricing” and to urge the Federal Trade Commission (“FTC” or “Commission”) to crack down on the increasingly common practice of companies using personal information to raise prices for consumers. We call on the Commission to re-open its market investigation into surveillance pricing and to take appropriate steps to protect consumers, including enforcement actions and rulemakings. As the FTC has documented, businesses are increasingly using personal data, such as demographic information, precise location, or even web browsing history, to target individual consumers with different prices for the same goods and services. Surveillance pricing builds upon not only the data that a company holds on a prospective customer, but also data purchased from shady data brokers. The practice of surveillance pricing has also given rise to new tech companies that claim to use “advanced algorithms, artificial intelligence and other technologies with personal information about consumers ... to categorize individuals and set a targeted price for a product or service” – sophisticated specialists in raising costs on consumers. Recent concerns about surveillance pricing for airline tickets illustrate the dangers of this highly intrusive — and for consumers financially burdensome — practice. Fetcherr, an A.I. analytics company, suggested it was developing pricing algorithms for airlines that would target individuals with specific prices that consider “factors like customer lifetime value, past purchase behaviors, and the real-time context of each booking inquiry” to drive up revenue. Taken together, airlines could find each consumers pain point and extract the most revenue, taking advantage of urgent trips. These concerns build on existing anxieties about airlines using dynamic pricing. Moreover Fetcherr’s ambitions to “[expand] into new verticals like hotels, cargo logistics, and even finance” illustrates the growth of this practice. The Commission had already begun a comprehensive market investigation into surveillance pricing under its Section 6(b) authority and issued a preliminary staff report on its findings. The 6(b) study explored the use cases and industries in which surveillance pricing is occurring and has helped reveal some of the details of this opaque business. The FTC found within its requests at least 250 businesses including grocery stores, apparel retailers, health and beauty retailers, home goods and furnishing stores, convenience stores, and hardware stores had adopted surveillance pricing strategies. Consumers deserve a fair playing field, where they’re not at the mercy of amorphous data brokers capturing their data and using it to determine their maximum financial pain point for a good or service. We urge the Commission to publish its Section 6(b) study on surveillance pricing and then take rulemaking and enforcement actions to reign in this exploitative practice Sincerely, ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/12/17/2025/kaine-applauds-senate-passage-of-fiscal-year-2026-national-defense-bill,Kaine Applauds Senate Passage of Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Bill,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,VA,Tim Kaine,K000384,www.kaine.senate.gov,kaine,https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) and Ranking Member of the SASC Subcommittee on Seapower, applauded Senate passage of the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which includes key provisions Kaine secured to advance U.S. national security, support servicemembers and their families, boost Virginia’s defense industry, and strengthen relations with allies and partners: “As a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, I’m always proud of our bipartisan work in the annual defense bill to advance our national security and support military personnel and families. I’m particularly excited that this year’s bill includes many provisions I secured, including investments in our nation’s shipbuilding programs, a pay raise for servicemembers, increased funding for military construction at installations across Virginia, and legislation to strengthen our alliances in Europe and the Indo-Pacific. I also secured the inclusion of my bipartisan bill to repeal the 1991 and 2002 Authorizations for Use of Military Force so we can formally end the Iraq wars. I urge President Trump to sign the bill as soon as possible.” During the SASC markup of the FY26 NDAA, an amendment to restore the names of three Virginia military bases to those chosen by a bipartisan commission was passed by voice vote. The House Armed Services Committee similarly passed an amendment to restore the names of all military bases on a bipartisan basis. However, the provisions were removed at the last minute because President Trump indicated that he would veto the entire defense bill over it like he did in 2020. Kaine successfully secured the following provisions: Pay Raises, Allowances, and Workforce Recruitment: Authorizes a 3.8 percent pay raise for military personnel. Directs the Secretary of Defense to ensure that pay statements for military servicemembers include clear descriptions for each type of pay, allowance, and deduction. Provides the Secretary of Defense with direct hiring authority for up to 60 graduates of the Defense Civilian Training Corps (DCTC) every calendar year and requires a report to Congress on the use of this hiring authority. DCTC is a pilot program that recruits and trains college students for careers as Department of Defense civilian employees. Repeal of 1991 and 2002 Authorizations for Use of Military Force (AUMFs): Includes bipartisan legislation led by Kaine and Senator Todd Young (R-IN) to repeal the 1991 and 2002 AUMFs and formally end the Iraq wars. The legislation was included in the House and Senate's version of this year’s NDAA. Aviation Safety: Requires that all aircraft of the Department of Defense that operate near commercial airports be equipped with broadcast positioning technology with some exceptions for certain training exercises that are complicated by this technology. Requires that the Department of Defense improve how it shares aviation safety data with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). This comes in response to the January 29, 2025 collision between an Army Black Hawk helicopter and American Airlines flight 5342 near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) that took the lives of 67 people. Kaine shaped the original version of this provision, which was later altered during the conference process. He has emphasized that the final version of the provision is only an intermediate step, and that he will work with colleagues to incorporate recommendations from the forthcoming National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and Army investigations in future legislation, including legislation to remove slots from DCA. Shipbuilding Investments: Authorizes procurement of naval surface vessels, including Medium Landing Ships. Authorizes increased funding for one Virginia-class submarine. Authorizes procurement of five Columbia-class submarines. Requires the Secretary of the Navy to move leadership for surface ship maintenance at private shipyards to Type Commanders and directs a new contracting strategy that emphasizes workforce stability and collaborative planning. Exempts the public shipyard workforce from reductions related to spending cuts or reprogramming of funds and protects personnel on probationary status. Contaminated Wells Relocation Act: Includes Kaine’s bipartisan, bicameral legislation to authorize NASA to negotiate an agreement with the Town of Chincoteague to address costs associated with relocating contaminated water wells, reimburse for those identified costs, and provide more local control of the water supply to the Town of Chincoteague. Several of the Town’s wells are located on NASA property and have been contaminated with per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). While the well water is currently being treated to remove PFAS and is safe to drink, these treatments must occur regularly, which is an ongoing cost for NASA. This bill offers a permanent solution to resolve the contamination management hurdle while saving the federal government money. Military Construction: Authorizes $890,460,000 for military construction (MILCON) in Virginia. $380,000,000 for Public-Private Venture (PPV) unaccompanied housing for junior enlisted sailors stationed at Naval Station Norfolk, Naval Air Station Oceana, Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story, and Newport News Shipyard. Part of this funding will be used to construct a housing facility for 1,500 sailors near Newport News Shipyard. Kaine has advocated for better housing for sailors near the shipyard to improve quality of life following multiple suicides by sailors assigned to the USS George Washington during its long maintenance and refueling overhaul. $188,000,000 for Dry Dock 3 modernization at Norfolk Naval Shipyard. $93,300,000 for Electric Distribution System upgrades at Naval Station Norfolk. $71,700,000 for weapons magazines at Naval Weapons Station Yorktown. $63,500,000 for a Water Treatment Plant at Marine Corps Base Quantico. $34,000,000 for operations center at the Pentagon. $20,400,000 for MQ-25 facilities at Naval Station Norfolk. $15,500,000 for an Aircraft Maintenance Hangar at Virginia Army National Guard’s Army Aviation Support Facility in Sandston. $12,360,000 for a Child Development Center at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story. $11,700,000 for a Child Development Center at Naval Station Norfolk. Military Housing: Authorizes increased funding to construct, repair, and improve enlisted barracks across the services. Requires the Secretary of Defense to publish a clear, accessible document that explains how Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) rates are determined. Requires the Secretary of Defense to develop an alternative methodology for calculating BAH based on the typical cost of housing units by number of bedrooms, conduct a pilot program using the new methodology, and brief Congress on the findings. Requires the Secretary of Defense to include additional oversight mechanisms for any renegotiation of the contract under the Global Household Goods Contract or negotiation of a new contract under the Global Household Goods Contract of any successor program or contract. Health Care: Expands efforts to mitigate and treat traumatic brain injuries and blast overpressure-related injuries. Requires the Secretary of Defense to authorize military medical treatment facilities to provide sexual assault medical forensic examinations to all victims, not just those who are eligible under TRICARE. Requires the National Guard Bureau to provide an annual report on the number of Guardsmen who participate in Sexual Assault Prevention and Response (SAPR) training per year. Requires the establishment of a demonstration program to expand partnerships between the Department of Defense and Department of Veterans Affairs medical facilities for the purpose of increasing case volume for graduate medical education programs. Military Families: Authorizes funding for child care fee assistance programs to eliminate fee assistance wait lists for eligible families. Requires the Secretary of Defense to improve staffing of special education teachers and staff and improve special education offerings at Department of Defense Education Activity (DODEA) schools. Requires an update to existing DODEA regulations on the student use of portable electronic mobile devices in DODEA schools to prohibit disruption in the learning environment. Authorizes funding for Impact Aid, including funding to support military children with severe disabilities. Impact Aid reimburses school districts for the cost of educating children who reside on military installations or have a parent that works on a military installation or federal property. Because military families may not pay certain state or local taxes where they are stationed, Impact Aid helps offset these costs to support schools. Oversight of Military Action in Caribbean: Fences certain travel funding for the Secretary of Defense until he provides unredacted videos of all strikes that have occurred in Latin America as well as copies of all classified Execute Orders (EXORDS) issued by the Department of Defense. European Security, NATO, and Ukraine: Prohibits a reduction in U.S. military posture in Europe or relinquishment of U.S. command of the Supreme Allied Commander Europe position until the Secretary of Defense assesses the impact on U.S. and NATO and certifies to Congress that such action is in the national interest. Authorizes funding for the NATO Security Investment Program. Extends and authorizes funding for the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative. Requires the Secretary of Defense to deliver a report on acceleration options for the JUMPSTART initiative, which allows European partners to purchase weapons for Ukraine from U.S. defense companies. Australia-U.K.-U.S. (AUKUS) Partnership: Includes Kaine’s bipartisan legislation with Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) to strengthen the AUKUS agreement by streamlining defense industrial base collaboration and co-production of Virginia-class submarines. Directs further collaboration between the AUKUS countries on IT infrastructure and directs the Department of Defense to provide an update on who it has assigned to be the senior civilian defense official to lead the U.S. work on this agreement and continue the updates required by the FY24 NDAA. Taiwan: Authorizes funding for the Taiwan Security Cooperation Initiative and directs the Department of Defense to engage with Taiwan to develop a joint program to codevelop and coproduce uncrewed and counter-uncrewed capabilities. U.S. Posture in Indo-Pacific: Authorizes funding for the Pacific Deterrence Initiative (PDI), which enhances U.S. force posture, infrastructure, readiness, capacity, and capabilities in the Indo-Pacific. Prohibits a reduction in U.S. military posture on the Korean Peninsula or a change in wartime operational control over the Combined Forces Command until the Secretary of Defense certifies to Congress that such action is in the national interest. Directs an initiative to strengthen security cooperation across the respective defense industrial bases of U.S. allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific. Philippines Enhanced Resilience Act (PERA) Act: Includes Kaine’s bipartisan legislation with Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN) to strengthen and modernize the U.S.-Philippines alliance through increased U.S. security assistance. Combating PRC Overseas and Unlawful Networked Threats through Enhanced Resilience (COUNTER) Act: Includes Kaine’s bipartisan legislation with Senators Chris Coons (D-DE) and Pete Ricketts (R-NE) to limit the PRC’s attempts to strengthen its global reach by expanding its overseas basing efforts. Korean American Divided Families National Registry Act: Includes Kaine’s bipartisan legislation with Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) to help reunite Korean Americans who have been separated from their relatives in North Korea since the Korean War. Haiti Criminal Collusion Transparency Act: Includes Kaine’s bipartisan legislation with Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Rick Scott (R-FL), John Curtis (R-UT), and Chris Coons (D-DE) to address ongoing gang violence in Haiti. Israel: Authorizes funding for the Israeli Cooperative Missile Defense Program, including the Iron Dome, David’s Sling, and Arrow. Since February 2024, Kaine has called for the transfer of defensive, rather than offensive, weapons to Israel in order to prevent further escalation that puts civilians and U.S. servicemembers in the region at risk. Uncrewed Aircraft Systems: Provides authorities for the protection of military installations, nuclear facilities, and key infrastructure from unmanned aerial systems. This comes after several drone incursions over Langley Air Force Base and other sites in Hampton Roads in December 2023. Requires the Department of Defense to develop a roadmap for the small, unmanned aircraft system (sUAS) industrial base to support existing sUAS programs. Requires a briefing on the plan for installation commanders to engage UAS on U.S. military installations by both kinetic and non-kinetic means. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-and-banks-introduce-bill-to-eliminate-antiquated-tax-on-student-loans,Kaine & Banks Introduce Bill to Eliminate Antiquated Tax on Student Loans,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,VA,Tim Kaine,K000384,www.kaine.senate.gov,kaine,https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine, a member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee, (D-VA) and U.S. Senator Jim Banks (R-IN) introduced the Student Loan Tax Elimination Act, legislation to remove antiquated “origination fees” for federal student loans. “Student loan debt is holding Virginia families and the overall economy back,” said Kaine. “It should be easier, not harder, for American students to afford to go to college if that is the right path for them. That’s why I’m introducing this bipartisan, commonsense legislation to finally get rid of an antiquated tax on student loan borrowers.” “Students deserve a fair deal when paying for college,” said Banks. “My bill ends a hidden tax on student loans and ensures our next generation has a greater opportunity to receive a more affordable education.” Origination fees were historically intended to offset costs incurred by the private-sector partners that serviced federal student loans. Direct Subsidized and Direct Unsubsidized loans are charged a fee of 1.057 percent, with PLUS loans receiving a fee of 4 percent. In 2010, Congress shifted responsibility for all federal student loans from private-sector partners to the U.S. Department of Education – but these fees remained in place and have been burdening borrowers since. The Student Loan Tax Elimination Act would finally remove these fees, eliminating what has been tantamount to a needless tax on student loan borrowers. Kaine has vigorously advocated for policies to make a high-quality education more affordable for Virginians and for all Americans. In April 2025, Kaine and Senator Jeff Merkley (D-OR) introduced legislation to expand federal student loan repayment options. In February 2025, Kaine introduced the Jumpstarting Our Businesses by Supporting Students (JOBS) Act, legislation to allow students to use federal Pell Grants for shorter-term job training programs; parts of this legislation became law in July 2025. The legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Chris Van Hollen (D-MD). U.S. Representatives Lloyd Smucker (R-PA-11) and Sharice Davids (D-KS-03) have introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives. Full text of the legislation is available here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/warner-and-kaine-applaud-unanimous-senate-passage-of-aviation-safety-legislation-sending-it-to-the-house,"Warner & Kaine Applaud Unanimous Senate Passage of Aviation Safety Legislation, Sending It to the House",2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,VA,Tim Kaine,K000384,www.kaine.senate.gov,kaine,https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) today welcomed Senate approval of the Rotorcraft Operations Transparency and Oversight Reform (ROTOR) Act, sending it to the House of Representatives for consideration. The bipartisan legislation, which passed unanimously out of the Senate Commerce Committee earlier this year, comes in response to the January 29, 2025 collision between American Airlines Flight 5342 and an Army Black Hawk helicopter near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) that tragically claimed 67 lives. “Congress owes it to the traveling public, and to the families who lost loved ones in the January 29 crash over the Potomac River, to address the systemic flaws that contributed to this tragedy,” said Warner and Kaine. “This bipartisan legislation is a meaningful step forward to ensure the safety and security of air travel. It strengthens oversight, improves coordination between the FAA and the Department of Defense, and requires comprehensive safety reviews of DCA and other busy airports. We urge the House to act quickly so this legislation can become law and provide real protections for passengers, flight crews, first responders, and the families still grieving the loss of their loved ones. When the NTSB and Army release their comprehensive reports about the crash, we stand ready to determine the next best steps Congress can take to further improve aviation safety, including removing slots from DCA.” The January 29 crash over the Potomac River exposed multiple system failures, including the Army Black Hawk not transmitting safety-enhancing ADS-B technology (radio systems that aircraft use to share their positions with each other and with air traffic control), unsafe route design for mixed traffic near DCA, and lack of Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Department of Defense (DoD) coordination to prevent future incidents. The ROTOR Act addresses these specific failures, as well as broader long-standing FAA air traffic controller shortages, FAA internal safety management systems, and the need for important post-accident safety reviews. The Rotorcraft Operations Transparency and Oversight Reform (ROTOR) Act specifically: Expands ADS-B In and Out Implementation for Commercial and Military Aircraft: Establishes a clear 2031 deadline for aircraft operators to equip with ADS-B In technology to provide pilots increased situational awareness and provide traffic advisories and alerting for airport operations to reduce the risk of mid-air and runway collisions. All commercial (e.g. passenger, cargo, business), military and general aviation operators who are already required by the FAA to be equipped with ADS-B Out must also equip with ADS-B In technology by December 31, 2031. The agreement also ends many Department of Defense (DoD) longstanding ADS-B Out transmission exemptions that have allowed military and other government aircraft to fly near DCA and other busy airports without transmitting their location. Training flights, proficiency flights, and flights of Federal officials below Cabinet rank will no longer qualify for the exemption. The bill also requires a Government Accountability Office (GAO) review comparing pre- and post-reform use of exemptions, annual DOT Inspector General compliance audits, quarterly reporting requirements for all agencies performing sensitive government missions, and biannual reporting to Congress on the frequency of flights using any remaining exemptions, with special 14-day notification if agencies use exemptions five or more times per month. Requires Comprehensive Safety Reviews of DCA and All Major, Mid-size Airports: Requires a comprehensive FAA safety review of DCA airspace to assess how civil and military helicopter, drone, and emergency first responder flights impact commercial operations at airports and to better prevent future incidents. These reviews ensure a thorough evaluation of all non-commercial flight routes near the airport. The agreement requires the same comprehensive FAA safety review of other Class B airports and Class C airports, prioritizing safety reviews for airports with high volumes of mixed flight traffic. Sets New Level of Coordination and Information Sharing Between FAA and DoD: The bipartisan agreement requires each military service with an aviation component to establish a memorandum of understanding with the FAA to share appropriate aviation safety information and enhance coordination to prevent future incidents. Reviews Army Policies and Standards: Mandates an Army Inspector General audit evaluating coordination with FAA, pilot training standards, ADS-B usage compliance, helicopter maintenance protocols, and the Army's review of loss of separation incidents in the National Capital Region. Results must be transmitted to Congress and publicly released within 14 days of completion. Advances Next-Generation Collision Avoidance Technology (ACAS-X): Lays the foundation for advancing the deployment of next generation collision avoidance technology – known as the Airborne Collision Avoidance System-X (ACAS-X) and its variants that can deliver strong improvements for aviation safety. During NTSB’s hearings on the DCA collision, this technology was discussed due to its more versatile applications to helicopter operations. This technology provides better traffic conflict resolution alerts to pilots and can better prevent mid-air helicopter collisions at lower altitudes where existing collision avoidance technology does not activate. The agreement directs FAA to develop a strategic plan and roadmap for widespread adoption of the technology among aviation operators. Warner and Kaine have been closely involved with the investigation of the January 29th collision, meeting with first responders and offering condolences to the families and loved ones of the 67 lives lost immediately following the tragedy. The senators also saw through passage of a legislation to remember the victims of the crash. Warner and Kaine also requested answers from FAA on its plans to protect the flying public in the wake of the January 29 collision. In March of this year, the senators responded to the preliminary National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) report on the crash. Earlier this month, the Senate passed its version of the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act, which included a provision Kaine secured to require all aircraft of the Defense Department that operate near commercial airports be equipped with broadcast positioning technology. The senators have also sounded the alarm for years about the need for increased safety for the flying public, including fighting against additional flights out of DCA that contribute to overcrowding. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=183F3505-251F-4FBE-ACE4-212D35B80E30,"Warner, Colleagues Blast FCC Efforts to Strip Broadband Price Transparency Labels for Consumers, Demand Reversal",2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,VA,Mark R. Warner,W000805,www.warner.senate.gov,warner,https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) and seven of his colleagues urged Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Brendan Carr to reverse the agency’s decision to weaken broadband label rules that help consumers understand the type of broadband services they are buying before committing to a provider. In a letter to Chairman Carr, the senators expressed strong opposition to the FCC’s proposed rulemaking that would scale back key broadband consumer label requirements that the FCC adopted unanimously in 2022. Congress directed the FCC to create broadband labels in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) in order to improve consumers’ ability to get a better understanding of the broadband services that they are paying for and receiving. “The broadband label framework was designed to work like nutrition labels, giving consumers a clear, consistent way to understand what services they are buying before they commit. After years of development and a bipartisan vote to implement these protections, we are now at the point where providers have integrated these labels into their systems and consumers are beginning to rely on them. This is not the moment to reverse course,” the senators wrote. “The entire purpose of the broadband label is to show consumers the real, total cost of service so that they can make informed choices. Allowing providers to bundle these fees into vague line items recreates exactly the kind of billing opaqueness that Congress sought to end. Families need to see what they are being charged and why,” the senators continued. Under the FCC’s proposal, internet service providers would be allowed to take actions such as bundling optional fees instead of listing them clearly and removing labels from customer account portals, which consumers often use to compare and review their service terms. The proposal could also allow providers to not display labels in the same languages used to advertise their plans. This letter is also signed by Sens. Adam Schiff (D-CA), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Brian Schatz (D- HI), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY). The full text of the letter can be found here and below: Dear Chairman Carr: We write to express strong opposition to the Federal Communication Commission's (FCC) Second Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking that would scale back key broadband consumer label requirements this Commission adopted unanimously in 2022. Congress gave the Commission explicit instructions in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) to create these labels, and we are concerned that the current proposal moves in the opposite direction from what the law requires and what consumers deserve. This letter is submitted as a follow-up to the letter sent by Senators Klobuchar and Lujan on October 24, 2025, prior to the Commission’s 2-1 vote to advance the proposed changes. The broadband label framework was designed to work like nutrition labels, giving consumers a clear, consistent way to understand what services they are buying before they commit. After years of development and a bipartisan vote to implement these protections, we are now at the point where providers have integrated these labels into their systems and consumers are beginning to rely on them. This is not the moment to reverse course. The proposal to exclude telephone sales from point-of-sale disclosure requirements would eliminate transparency for some of the most vulnerable consumers in our country. Seniors, people with disabilities, rural residents, and households shopping for their first internet service frequently rely on phone conversations to compare plans and sign up for service. Under this proposal, those consumers would lose access to the very information that online shoppers take for granted. Instead of regulatory efficiency, this change would create a two-tier system that disadvantages the Americans who can least afford confusion about the services they are purchasing. We are equally troubled by the Commission’s proposal to let providers aggregate discretionary fees that companies choose to impose rather than itemize them. The entire purpose of the broadband label is to show consumers the real, total cost of service so that they can make informed choices. Allowing providers to bundle these fees into vague line items recreates exactly the kind of billing opaqueness that Congress sought to end. Families need to see what they are being charged and why. Comparison shopping becomes meaningless if the prices are not actually comparable. The proposal to remove labels from customer account portals is also misguided. Right now, a consumer can log into their account months after signing up, pull up their label, and verify what they were promised at the initial point of sale. They can check whether their promotional rate is about to expire or compare their current plan to newer options. Eliminating that access would leave consumers with no reliable way to review their own service terms. At a time when internet service costs are rising and many families are managing tighter budgets, we should be making it easier for people to understand what they are paying for. Public interest advocates have long emphasized that ongoing access to these labels is not merely a convenience but a core consumer protection. Broadband plans change frequently, promotional rates expire, and providers sometimes introduce new terms or fees long after the initial sale. Without a persistent label visible in customers’ online accounts, consumers have no simple way to verify whether their service still matches what they were promised or to detect price increases and speed changes that may occur over time. Removing this requirement would make it easier for providers to bury bill changes in dense terms of service or scattered emails, and it would hinder consumers’ ability to exercise their rights, switch plans, or challenge inaccurate billing. Continuous transparency is essential to preventing bait-and-switch tactics and to ensuring broadband markets function fairly for all people. We also urge the Commission to reconsider eliminating multilingual label requirements. Providers actively market to non-English-speaking communities in Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese, Korean, and other languages. It is both reasonable and fair to require that the same consumers receive pricing and service term disclosures in the language they were sold in. Marketing in one language while providing key financial information only in English will only result in confusion and exploitation. Furthermore, the proposed elimination of machine-readable formats and archiving requirements would undermine accountability across the board. These technical features allow consumer advocates, researchers, regulators, and journalists to analyze pricing trends, track harmful practices, and fuel tools that help families make fully informed financial decisions. They also support the Commission's own enforcement work. Removing these features would weaken oversight at a time when the broadband market needs more scrutiny. The broadband label program represents bipartisan recognition that clear information is essential to a functioning market. The law Congress passed was not a suggestion. It was a directive, rooted in the straightforward principle that consumers deserve to know what they are purchasing in easy-to-understand terms and what it costs when they sign a contract. We respectfully urge the Commission to withdraw or substantially revise this proposal and to maintain the comprehensive transparency protections that Congress mandated in IIJA. Families across the country are counting on the FCC to ensure that broadband providers compete in quality and price. That requires consumers to actually see and understand both. Thank you for considering these views. ### * High-quality photographs of Sen. Mark R. Warner are available for downloadhere*",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=2A0A56AD-1936-4DB8-A744-38DF95E7FE1D,Warner Applauds Passage of Annual Defense Bill,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,VA,Mark R. Warner,W000805,www.warner.senate.gov,warner,https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) today applauded the Senate passage of the final, compromise text of the nation’s annual defense bill, the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). This bill, which includes key Warner-led priorities, previously passed the House, and now awaits the President’s signature. “As the world becomes more dangerous and the technology available to our allies and adversaries alike becomes increasingly more complex, I’m pleased to see the Senate pass this bipartisan legislation,” said Sen. Warner. “This legislation will strengthen our military, provide greater support to servicemembers, bolster our technological capabilities, and address challenges across the globe.” For the Commonwealth, this bill: Authorizes more than $935 million for 14 military construction projects across the Commonwealth, which Senator Warner advocated for with the Armed Services Committee. This includes: $380 million for a Public-Private housing project at Naval Station Norfolk $188 million for dry dock modernization at Norfolk Naval Shipyard $24 million for the completion of two Child Development Centers (JEB Little Creek-Ft Story and NS Norfolk), and $15.5 million in funding for the VA National Guard to complete the next stage of their Aircraft Maintenance Hangar project. Provides more than $25 billion for Navy shipbuilding – more than $5 billion over the President’s budget request. Greenlights the procurement of a third Columbia-class submarine, as well as funding for the Virginia-class submarine and aircraft carrier programs. Prevents funding from being misused to reduce the workforce at any public shipyard, including Norfolk Naval Shipyard. Senator Warner had successfully pushed conferees for this provision in the final bill. Authorizes NASA to reimburse the Town of Chincoteague for expenses related to relocated PFAS contaminated water wells to a safe location. From the late 1970s to 1988, PFAS were used at NASA’s Wallops Flight Facility. In 2017, NASA detected PFAS in wells used to provide drinking water to the Town of Chincoteague and has since needed to provide the town with drinking water – first from an uncontaminated NASA well and then through a groundwater treatment system that filtered out the PFAS. This provision was championed by Sen. Warner and based off legislation he introduced earlier this year. For a stronger military, this bill: Authorizes a 3.8 percent pay raise for servicemembers. Creates a new Personal Property Management Office, and establishes stricter requirements and oversight mechanisms for any future contract related to the servicemember PCS move process. This builds on Sen. Warner’s successful efforts to secure modifications to the military’s broken moving system. Sen. Warner previously raised concerns about ongoing delays and confusion, and sounded the alarm about missed pickups, delivery issues and communication difficulties with the military contractor responsible for moves. Includes a package of reforms to barracks housing, led by Sen. Warner, which will allow for increased oversight of housing for these servicemembers. These provisions mandate a review of housing quality methodologies, reform those metrics to ensure they accurately reflect the quality of housing, and take steps to standardize methodologies across military services; develop a centralized tracking system for barracks construction needs; and improve a number of reporting requirements aimed at increasing transparency and improving the quality of housing for our servicemembers. Makes a number of additional improvements to military housing policy, including increased visibility around dispute resolution payments by landlords, as well as greater transparency requirements around the calculation of housing allowance rates. To strengthen our nation’s technological capabilities, this bill: Includes Warner provisions to support DoD’s fielding of advanced nuclear technology. The bill includes provisions that would create an Advanced Nuclear Working Group responsible for accelerating the procurement and use of advanced nuclear capabilities, improving coordination across the Department and federal government to support national security missions and emergent needs. The bill also provides greater authority for DoD to attract and scale private investment in these technologies. Sen. Warner worked with bipartisan colleagues to secure inclusion of these provisions in the Senate bill. Requires a strategy to reestablish a credible deterrence against cyberattacks targeting American critical infrastructure using the full spectrum of military operations. Requires the establishment of a Biotechnology Management Office, as well as the development of a DoD-wide strategy to enhance the use of biotech products. Requires the development of guidelines on the ethical and responsible development and deployment of biotech within DoD. Requires DoD to develop a roadmap for the small, unmanned aircraft system (sUAS) industrial base to support existing sUAS programs. Requires regular congressional briefings from the All-domain Anomaly Resolution Office, about Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena (UAP) intercepts by the North American Aerospace Defense Command or United States Northern Command. To bolster our ability to address strategic global challenges, this bill: Prohibits a unilateral reduction in U.S. military force posture in Europe or U.S. relinquishment of the Supreme Allied Commander Europe position until the Secretary of Defense assesses the impact on U.S. and NATO interests and certifies to Congress that such action is in the national interest. Prohibits a unilateral reduction in U.S. military posture in the Korean Peninsula or a change in wartime operational control over the Combined Forces Command until the Secretary of Defense certifies to Congress that such action is in the national interest. Authorizes $1 billion for the Taiwan Security Cooperation Initiative and expands the authority to cover combat casualty care and medical equipment. Directs DoD to engage with Taiwan to develop a joint program to co-develop and co-produce drone capabilities. It also directs DoD to assess Taiwan’s critical digital infrastructure and identify actions to help enable the protection of such infrastructure, consistent with the Taiwan Relations Act. Extends the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI) through 2029 and authorizes funding of $400 million. Requires the Secretary of Defense to continue to provide intelligence support, including information, intelligence, and imagery collection to the Government of Ukraine. Requires an evaluation of the intelligence capabilities of the People’s Republic of China and Russia in Cuba. Directs DoD to evaluate and, if necessary, improve communication between the U.S. and Mexican militaries during border-related support. ### * High-quality photographs of Sen. Mark R. Warner are available for downloadhere* Photos may be used online and in print, and can be attributed to ‘The Office of Sen. Mark R. Warner’",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=4F0B7DC4-7607-448E-950F-B47114F701A8,"Warner, Cotton Statements on Passage of Intelligence Authorization Act",2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,VA,Mark R. Warner,W000805,www.warner.senate.gov,warner,https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) and Tom Cotton (R-AR), Vice Chairman and Chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, released the following statement after the Senate passed the annual Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 (IAA) as a part of the annual National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), following passage last week in the House of Representatives. The IAA represents a bipartisan effort by the Senate and House Intelligence Committees to authorize the funding, provide legal authorities, and ensure vigorous congressional oversight of national security threats and our United States Intelligence Community. “I thank my colleagues and am glad to see this bill pass once again on a strong bipartisan basis. It provides the Intelligence Community the resources it needs to do its mission while ensuring that we maintain rigorous oversight of the IC’s activities. This year’s IAA responds to important concerns, including by demanding continued support and transparency for AHI victims, ensuring IC facilities can be protected from the growing threat of commercial drones, and requiring cyber protections for our electoral systems. At the same time, it readies the IC for the future by promoting IC energy resiliency, enhancing the IC’s ability to detect and counter threats related to emerging biotechnology, and ensuring the IC adopts artificial intelligence in a secure and responsible manner. While I am disappointed that we were unable to reach agreement on a provision to secure our Nation’s telecom infrastructure, I look forward to continuing to work with my Senate colleagues to address the unprecedented Salt Typhoon breach that exposed the personal data and communications of millions of Americans,” said Sen. Warner. “I’d like to thank my colleagues for supporting this bill and the many members of both the House and Senate Intelligence Committees for building this bill and getting it across the finish line. Since becoming chairman, I have been clear about the need for real reform across the entire intelligence community, starting with the Office of the Director of National Intelligence. The FY26 IAA will enact many of these reforms, which will mean a more efficient intelligence community and a safer United States. This law also includes many other important provisions to ensure and enhance our nation’s security. These include prohibiting the intelligence community from contracting with Chinese military companies, improving the security of CIA installations, identifying the threat to America’s food security posed by Communist China, and directing necessary resources towards defending our nation from threats posed by Iran. I’m glad this bill passed both houses of Congress as part of the NDAA and I look forward to it being signed into law by the President,” said Sen. Cotton. The Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2026 will: Significantly reform and improve efficiencies and effectiveness within the Office of the Director of National Intelligence and the broader Intelligence Community; Prohibit the Intelligence Community from contracting with Chinese military companies engaged in biotechnology research, development, or manufacturing; Improve the Intelligence Community’s artificial intelligence capabilities and capacity and establish guidance for the Intelligence Community’s procurement and use of artificial intelligence; Increase transparency to Congress regarding Iran’s enrichment activities, including decisions to weaponize uranium; Improve the security of Central Intelligence Agency installations; Require the Intelligence Community to develop a plan for sharing biotechnological threats with U.S. agencies, allies, and private-sector partners; Require the Director of National Intelligence to identify sites for deployment of advanced nuclear technologies; Establish a strategy to support Intelligence Community efforts to acquire and integrate emerging technologies proven to meet mission needs; Require any Intelligence Community element with information regarding Iranian lethal threats to United States persons to provide the information to the FBI and to any person responsible for protecting the intended victim; Support the Intelligence Community workforce by requiring the Director of National Intelligence to issue standard guidelines for Intelligence Community personnel to document and report Anomalous Health Incidents; Expose the People’s Republic of China’s investments that are undermining America’s agricultural security. Mandate an annual Intelligence Community survey of analytic objectivity among each element’s officers and employees, and ensure that analytic training includes instructions on avoiding political bias; Mandate Intelligence Community notifications and reporting to ensure greater congressional oversight of the terrorist watchlist or the transnational organized crime watchlist; Require the Director of National Intelligence to enhance efforts to counter narcotics trafficking with the Government of Mexico; and Promote transparency by requiring the Director of National Intelligence to conduct a declassification review and publish intelligence relating to the origins of the COVID-19 pandemic. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=89F282F6-43C7-4BBE-AE46-7A2E572096A4,CMS Heeds Warner and Wyden Call to Improve Medicare Advantage for Seniors,2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,VA,Mark R. Warner,W000805,www.warner.senate.gov,warner,https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) and Ron Wyden (D-OR), Ranking Member of the Senate Finance Committee, issued a statement after the Trump administration proposed new steps to make it easier for seniors to switch their Medicare Advantage plan or choose Traditional Medicare if a doctor or hospital they use leaves their insurance plan network. “Navigating the health care landscape is hard enough as is – we shouldn’t be forcing seniors to jump through hoops in order to continue seeing the doctors they know and trust,” said Sen. Warner. “I’m glad to see CMS heed our call by proposing new measures that would allow Medicare Advantage enrollees to change their coverage more easily when they experience mid-year provider network changes. I’ll keep working with CMS to get this proposed rule finalized and ensure that elderly Americans can count on the continuity of care they need.” “American seniors should not have the rug pulled out from under them when it comes to seeing the doctor of their choice,” said Sen. Wyden. “These proposed improvements will reduce confusion and make it easier for seniors to continue seeing their local health care providers. I urge CMS to finalize this proposal and bring more transparency and consumer protection to Medicare Advantage.” In October, Wyden and Warner called on Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to address the rising number of incidents where doctors or health care facilities leave a Medicare Advantage plan network, which triggers a “special enrollment period” that allows seniors to change plans. Over the past year, more than a dozen states have had provider network changes deemed “significant” by CMS. Late last month, CMS proposed changes to streamline the process by allowing seniors to change plans if virtually any of the health care providers they see leaves their plan network. An enrollee who loses a provider within their plan network will be notified of the network change and their right to change plan or switch to Traditional Medicare with guaranteed access to Medigap coverage. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=D18E5409-9021-4BE4-9795-48B4E5495939,"Warner & Kaine Applaud Unanimous Senate Passage of Aviation Safety Legislation, Sending it to the House",2025-12-17,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,VA,Mark R. Warner,W000805,www.warner.senate.gov,warner,https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases,scraper,"WASHINGTON — U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) today welcomed Senate approval of the Rotorcraft Operations Transparency and Oversight Reform (ROTOR) Act, sending it to the House of Representatives for consideration. The bipartisan legislation, which passed unanimously out of the Senate Commerce Committee earlier this year, comes in response to the January 29, 2025 collision between American Airlines Flight 5342 and an Army Black Hawk helicopter near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) that tragically claimed 67 lives. “Congress owes it to the traveling public, and to the families who lost loved ones in the January 29 crash over the Potomac River, to address the systemic flaws that contributed to this tragedy,” said Sens. Warner and Kaine. “This bipartisan legislation is a meaningful step forward to ensure the safety and security of air travel. It strengthens oversight, improves coordination between the FAA and the Department of Defense, and requires comprehensive safety reviews of DCA and other busy airports. We urge the House to act quickly so this legislation can become law and provide real protections for passengers, flight crews, first responders, and the families still grieving the loss of their loved ones. When the NTSB and Army release their comprehensive reports about the crash, we stand ready to determine the next best steps Congress can take to further improve aviation safety, including removing slots from DCA.” The January 29 crash over the Potomac River exposed multiple system failures, including the Army Black Hawk not transmitting safety-enhancing ADS-B technology (radio systems that aircraft use to share their positions with each other and with air traffic control), unsafe route design for mixed traffic near DCA, and lack of Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Department of Defense (DoD) coordination to prevent future incidents. The ROTOR Act addresses these specific failures, as well as broader long-standing FAA air traffic controller shortages, FAA internal safety management systems, and the need for important post-accident safety reviews. The Rotorcraft Operations Transparency and Oversight Reform (ROTOR) Act specifically: Expands ADS-B In and Out Implementation for Commercial and Military Aircraft: Establishes a clear 2031 deadline for aircraft operators to equip with ADS-B In technology to provide pilots increased situational awareness and provide traffic advisories and alerting for airport operations to reduce the risk of mid-air and runway collisions. All commercial (e.g. passenger, cargo, business), military and general aviation operators who are already required by the FAA to be equipped with ADS-B Out must also equip with ADS-B In technology by December 31, 2031. The agreement also ends many Department of Defense (DoD) longstanding ADS-B Out transmission exemptions that have allowed military and other government aircraft to fly near DCA and other busy airports without transmitting their location. Training flights, proficiency flights, and flights of Federal officials below Cabinet rank will no longer qualify for the exemption. The bill also requires a Government Accountability Office (GAO) review comparing pre- and post-reform use of exemptions, annual DOT Inspector General compliance audits, quarterly reporting requirements for all agencies performing sensitive government missions, and biannual reporting to Congress on the frequency of flights using any remaining exemptions, with special 14-day notification if agencies use exemptions five or more times per month. Requires Comprehensive Safety Reviews of DCA and All Major, Mid-size Airports: Requires a comprehensive FAA safety review of DCA airspace to assess how civil and military helicopter, drone, and emergency first responder flights impact commercial operations at airports and to better prevent future incidents. These reviews ensure a thorough evaluation of all non-commercial flight routes near the airport. The agreement requires the same comprehensive FAA safety review of other Class B airports and Class C airports, prioritizing safety reviews for airports with high volumes of mixed flight traffic. Sets New Level of Coordination and Information Sharing Between FAA and DoD: The bipartisan agreement requires each military service with an aviation component to establish a memorandum of understanding with the FAA to share appropriate aviation safety information and enhance coordination to prevent future incidents. Reviews Army Policies and Standards: Mandates an Army Inspector General audit evaluating coordination with FAA, pilot training standards, ADS-B usage compliance, helicopter maintenance protocols, and the Army's review of loss of separation incidents in the National Capital Region. Results must be transmitted to Congress and publicly released within 14 days of completion. Advances Next-Generation Collision Avoidance Technology (ACAS-X): Lays the foundation for advancing the deployment of next generation collision avoidance technology – known as the Airborne Collision Avoidance System-X (ACAS-X) and its variants that can deliver strong improvements for aviation safety. During NTSB’s hearings on the DCA collision, this technology was discussed due to its more versatile applications to helicopter operations. This technology provides better traffic conflict resolution alerts to pilots and can better prevent mid-air helicopter collisions at lower altitudes where existing collision avoidance technology does not activate. The agreement directs FAA to develop a strategic plan and roadmap for widespread adoption of the technology among aviation operators. Sens. Warner and Kaine have been closely involved with the investigation of the January 29th collision, meeting with first responders and offering condolences to the families and loved ones of the 67 lives lost immediately following the tragedy. The senators also saw through passage of a legislation to remember the victims of the crash. Sens. Warner and Kaine also requested answers from FAA on its plans to protect the flying public in the wake of the January 29 collision. In March of this year, the senators responded to the preliminary National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) report on the crash. Earlier this month, the Senate passed its version of the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act, which included a provision Kaine secured to require all aircraft of the Defense Department that operate near commercial airports be equipped with broadcast positioning technology. The senators have also sounded the alarm for years about the need for increased safety for the flying public, including fighting against additional flights out of DCA that contribute to overcrowding. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-and-warnock-lead-colleagues-in-condemning-trump-administration-policy-change-that-harms-federal-workers-with-disabilities,Kaine & Warnock Lead Colleagues in Condemning Trump Administration Policy Change That Harms Federal Workers with Disabilities,2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,VA,Tim Kaine,K000384,www.kaine.senate.gov,kaine,https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA), a member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, and Reverand Raphael Warnock (D-GA) led a group of Democratic Senate colleagues in writing to U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to push back on new HHS guidance that rescinds telework as a reasonable accommodation for qualified employees with disabilities. This policy change has already directly harmed HHS employees, including an employee with a high-risk pregnancy and a disabled veteran. “We write to express our concern regarding recent policy changes at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) affecting federal employees with disabilities…One in four Americans live with a disability, and they not only benefit from various federal programs and services but also meaningfully contribute to the functioning of the federal government,” the senators wrote. “Yet on August 13, 2025, the HHS Office of Human Resources (OHR) issued guidance that will inflict outsized harm on workers with disabilities, including people living with chronic disease or illness, people with compromised immune systems, and disabled veterans.” “The HHS guidance rescinds telework as a reasonable accommodation for qualified employees with disabilities, resulting in a pause on all new and renewing telework requests in at least one HHS operational division. This policy has already inflicted distress on employees whose approved telework accommodations or requests for telework accommodations were unexpectedly revoked,” they continued. “[The federal government] is bound by law not to discriminate against those workers and to take steps to increase employment of workers with disabilities…These are simple changes in the normal places and processes of work that allow employees with the requisite skills, knowledge, and aptitude to do the job.” “Research has shown again and again that reasonable accommodations for qualified employees increase satisfaction, retention, and, importantly, productivity, while frequently posing no cost,” they wrote. “The percentage of working-age individuals with disabilities who were employed increased from 4.3 million in 2020 to 6.3 million in 2024, in large part due to increasing opportunities for telework. That represents two million people entering the workforce because of this reasonable accommodation.” In their letter, the senators demanded answers from Secretary Kennedy to the following questions by January 16, 2026: How many existing telework accommodations were canceled following the January 27, 2025, issuance of the Agency Return-to-Office Plan? Please provide a breakdown by agency. How many new and renewing applications for telework accommodation are currently paused at HHS? Please provide a breakdown by agency. How many veterans, and how many veterans with service-related disabilities, had telework accommodations in place on January 27, 2025? How many veterans, and how many veterans with service-related disabilities, have telework accommodations in place currently? Please provide a breakdown by agency. How has Instruction 990-3, HHS Telework been tailored to prevent undue harm to qualified employees with disabilities in hiring and employment? What recourse is available to HHS employees whose mental health, physical health, or workplace productivity are adversely affected by revocations or denials of reasonable accommodations for telework? CDC OHR requested clarification on Instruction 990-3, HHS Telework. What clarification did or will HHS provide to CDC OHR? Does HHS currently, or will HHS in the future, require all telework accommodations be approved by officials at the level of Assistant Secretary or higher? If so, what training, guidance, or additional resources will HHS provide to these officials to equip them to make determinations regarding reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities? Is it permissible at HHS to demote, discipline, or otherwise demoralize employees who request telework options as a reasonable accommodation? How does HHS plan to recruit exceptional talent to preserve the health and wellbeing of Americans without offering reasonable accommodations such as telework to qualified employees with disabilities? In addition to Kaine and Warnock, the letter is signed by U.S. Senators Angela D Alsobrooks (D-MD), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), and Mark R. Warner (D-VA). Full text of the letter is available here and below. Dear Secretary Kennedy: We write to express our concern regarding recent policy changes at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) affecting federal employees with disabilities. HHS is the leading federal agency tasked with preserving the health of Americans, including those with disabilities. One in four Americans live with a disability, and they not only benefit from various federal programs and services but also meaningfully contribute to the functioning of the federal government. Yet on August 13, 2025, the HHS Office of Human Resources (OHR) issued guidance that will inflict outsized harm on workers with disabilities, including people living with chronic disease or illness, people with compromised immune systems, and disabled veterans. The HHS guidance rescinds telework as a reasonable accommodation for qualified employees with disabilities, resulting in a pause on all new and renewing telework requests in at least one HHS operational division. This policy has already inflicted distress on employees whose approved telework accommodations or requests for telework accommodations were unexpectedly revoked. Further, recent reporting suggests HHS will require requests for telework, including accommodations for employees with disabilities, be approved by an official at the level of Assistant Secretary or above. This would constitute an extraordinary hurdle for civil servants. The federal government is a major employer of people with disabilities. It is bound by law not to discriminate against those workers and to take steps to increase employment of workers with disabilities. Section 501 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Section 501) prohibits discrimination in federal employment against any qualified individual with a disability. It requires federal agencies to provide reasonable accommodations for qualified employees with disabilities. These are simple changes in the normal places and processes of work that allow employees with the requisite skills, knowledge, and aptitude to do the job. It ensures the full and equal participation of all Americans committed to public service, regardless of disability status. Research has shown again and again that reasonable accommodations for qualified employees increase satisfaction, retention, and, importantly, productivity, while frequently posing no cost. A study funded by the Department of Labor found that almost two-thirds of reported accommodations cost nothing. Of those with a price, the median cost amounted to a one-time expense of $300. Furthermore, 85 percent of employers reported increased employee retention, and half saw increased productivity, enhanced job attendance, and cost savings in training and onboarding. Telework or hybrid work arrangements are low-cost accommodations. Millions of Americans became acquainted with telework when remote arrangements allowed many American businesses to maintain operations during the earliest phase of the COVID-19 pandemic. Managers and employees both overwhelmingly tout the advantages of flexible work arrangements: employees spend less time and money commuting, employers reduce costly overhead, and both benefit from a broader pool of talent and opportunities. We know telework increases productivity. One cross-sector analysis of American firms associates a one percent increase in productivity for every 10 percent increase in remote workers. Further, telework and similar reasonable accommodations increase overall participation in the labor force. The percentage of working-age individuals with disabilities who were employed increased from 4.3 million in 2020 to 6.3 million in 2024, in large part due to increasing opportunities for telework. That represents two million people entering the workforce because of this reasonable accommodation. These benefits redound to the advantage of both the federal government and the private sector. The Telework Enhancement Act of 20108 required federal agencies to establish policies permitting telework. In subsequent reports to Congress, 70 percent of agencies indicated that telework enhanced their resilience during emergency events, and 60 percent said remote flexibility was key to employee retention. While agencies have used various metrics to calculate savings, all agree: telework arrangements have saved the federal government hundreds of millions of dollars since 2010. Section 501 and the Telework Enhancement Act work in tandem with the Veterans Preference Act of 1944, which prioritizes veterans in federal hiring, to ensure that people with disabilities have full and equal participation in the workforce. As of Fiscal Year (FY) 2023, veterans comprise 28 percent of all federal employees, and nearly 60 percent of veterans in civilian federal employment are disabled. Of all new federal hires in FY 2023, 21 percent were veterans. While approximately five percent of the civilian population in the United States has a disability, the rate among veterans is 30 percent. Overall, in FY 2023, 21 percent of the federal workforce identified as having a disability. Accommodating qualified employees with disabilities is an operational and moral imperative of federal agencies, and any indiscretion in this duty has outsized consequences on employees with disabilities, including disabled veterans. This is why we are particularly concerned about HHS’ recent decision to prohibit telework as a reasonable accommodation for qualified employees with disabilities. On January 27, 2025, the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) issued guidance on the “Agency Return-to-Office Plan,” which resulted in disorganized and disoriented efforts to bring federal employees back to offices that were often unprepared and over-occupied. On August 13, 2025, HHS OHR issued Instruction 990-3, HHS Telework, outlining the agency’s new telework program. This document does not mention the word “disability.” Ambiguities in this guidance have forced the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) OHR to pause approvals for new and renewing reasonable accommodations for telework. Approving reasonable accommodations at the level of the Assistant Secretary will only exacerbate the adversity to which employees with disabilities will be subject: many will be intimidated from requesting accommodations, and those who do will wait in expanding backlogs. Already, federal employees have been harmed by these decisions. We have received reports of: An employee with a telework accommodation due to a high-risk pregnancy who, on the same day they were told to report to the office, was rushed to the emergency room by ambulance. A disabled veteran with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) which was exacerbated by the August 8, 2025, attack on CDC headquarters, whose telework accommodation was fitfully denied, approved, and denied again, leaving them without direction or guidance. An employee who sought a telework accommodation for PTSD following the August 8, 2025, attack, who was threatened with demotion from their supervisory position if they pursued the request, despite previously performing the job duties successfully via telework accommodation. A veteran hired as a fully-remote employee, now directed to report to the office, who cannot even check the status of their telework accommodation because the personnel in OHR and the Office of Equal Employment Opportunity have been terminated following a reduction in force. In light of these harmful policies, we request HHS immediately reverse this guidance which has affected employees with disabilities, including disabled veterans, and ask HHS to answer the following questions by January 16, 2026: How many existing telework accommodations were canceled following the January 27, 2025, issuance of the Agency Return-to-Office Plan? Please provide a breakdown by agency. How many new and renewing applications for telework accommodation are currently pending review at HHS? Please provide a breakdown by agency. How many veterans, and how many veterans with service-related disabilities, had telework accommodations in place on January 27, 2025? How many veterans, and how many veterans with service-related disabilities, have telework accommodations in place currently? Please provide a breakdown by agency. How has Instruction 990-3, HHS Telework been tailored to prevent undue harm to qualified employees with disabilities in hiring and employment? What recourse is available to HHS employees whose mental health, physical health, or workplace productivity are adversely affected by revocations, denials, or delays in processing reasonable accommodations for telework? CDC OHR requested clarification on Instruction 990-3, HHS Telework. What clarification did or will HHS provide to CDC OHR? Does HHS currently, or will HHS in the future, require all telework accommodations be approved by officials at the level of Assistant Secretary or higher? If so, what training, guidance, or additional resources will HHS provide to these officials to equip them to make determinations regarding reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities? Is it permissible at HHS to demote, discipline, or otherwise demoralize employees who request telework options as a reasonable accommodation? How does HHS plan to recruit exceptional talent to preserve the health and wellbeing of Americans without offering reasonable accommodations such as telework to qualified employees with disabilities? We appreciate your prompt cooperation in this matter. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-slams-new-coast-guard-policy-downgrading-definition-of-swastikas-nooses,"Kaine Slams New Coast Guard Policy Downgrading Definition of Swastikas, Nooses",2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,VA,Tim Kaine,K000384,www.kaine.senate.gov,kaine,https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement after the Coast Guard enacted a new policy calling swastikas and nooses ‘potentially divisive’—a significant downgrade from their previous classification as hate symbols—in the Guard’s workplace harassment guidance: “This policy must be reversed immediately. Allowing racism and antisemitism to fester in our armed forces is wrong, harmful to our military readiness, and makes all of us less safe. Americans across the country were disgusted when news about this proposed change broke last month. I had hoped the Trump Administration was sufficiently shamed into backtracking when it called that reporting an ‘absolute ludicrous lie and unequivocally false.’ By moving forward with this absurdly dangerous policy, it’s clear this Administration will stop at nothing to reach a new low.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-warner-fetterman-mcgarvey-and-scott-introduce-legislation-to-strengthen-and-increase-accessibility-of-black-lung-benefits-program-for-miners,"Kaine, Warner, Fetterman, McGarvey, & Scott Introduce Legislation to Strengthen and Increase Accessibility of Black Lung Benefits Program for Miners",2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,VA,Tim Kaine,K000384,www.kaine.senate.gov,kaine,https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Tim Kaine, Mark R. Warner (both D-VA), and John Fetterman (D-PA) and U.S. Representatives Morgan McGarvey (D-KY-03) and Bobby Scott (D-VA-03), Ranking Member of the Committee on Education and Labor, reintroduced the Black Lung Benefits Improvement Act, legislation that would help miners who have suffered from black lung disease access the workers’ compensation and benefits they are entitled to receive under the federal Black Lung Benefits Program. This legislation significantly reduces barriers, such as rising inflation and costs-of-living, complex claims processes, and lack of legal representation, that prevent miners and their survivors from accessing benefits. “Our miners make tremendous sacrifices to keep our lights on, communities powered, and nation running,” said Kaine. “The Black Lung Benefits Improvement Act will help the brave miners and retirees impacted by black lung disease finally get the medical coverage and compensation they've earned.” “For generations, Virginia’s coal miners have made tremendous sacrifices to power America, literally risking their lives to fuel our nation,” said Warner. “The Black Lung Benefits Improvement Act will eliminate red tape and help miners and their families get easy access to the benefits, compensation, and legal representation they deserve.” “The job of a coal miner is often a dangerous and thankless one. Pennsylvania’s coal miners know the risk all too well,” said Fetterman. “It’s absolutely wrong when we have workers not receiving the benefits they were promised—zero exceptions. I’m proud to join my colleagues on the Black Lung Benefits Improvement Act so we do right by our coal miners and their families. They risk their lives every day for our great country and we should have their backs when they need us, not leave them behind.” “After paying for this country’s last energy revolution with their own health and safety, miners shouldn’t have to endure a costly, drawn-out legal process to prove they’ve earned their benefits,” said McGarvey. “Our bill would peg these benefits to inflation and make them easier to access, rather than letting these miners who have sacrificed so much be left further and further behind. I’m grateful for Senators Kaine and Fetterman and Ranking Member Scott’s continued dedication to strengthen black lung benefits, get miners the care they need, and uphold the dignity of financial security that they deserve.” “Decades ago, Congress established the Black Lung Benefits Act to provide monthly compensation and medical coverage for coal miners who develop black lung disease and are totally disabled. Unfortunately, the Government Accountability Office found that miners often lack the necessary medical and legal resources to develop evidence to prove their claims,” said Scott. “The Black Lung Benefits Improvement Act helps miners and their survivors access legal representation, ensures benefits are not eroded due to inflation, reduces the time for processing claims, and protects taxpayers from taking a hit when a self-insured coal company goes bankrupt and cannot pay black lung claims.” Many miners have developed coal workers’ pneumoconiosis—commonly referred to as “black lung”—a debilitating and deadly disease caused by the long-term inhalation of coal dust in underground and surface coal mines. In response, Congress passed the Black Lung Benefits Act in 1976 to provide monthly compensation and medical coverage for coal miners who develop black lung disease and are disabled. The Black Lung Benefits Improvement Act makes necessary updates to ensure Congress is fulfilling its commitment to the nation’s coal miners by: Automatically adjusting coal miners' benefits for inflation, Helping miners and their survivors secure legal representation by increasing the number of attorneys willing to take on black lung claims, Expanding the assistance provided by black lung clinics, Ensuring miners get assistance from the Department of Labor (DOL) in rebutting medical evidence, Improving access to CT scans to clarify medical eligibility, Requiring the DOL to address potential conflicts of interest with physicians providing medical exams, Accelerating the DOL’s access to employment and earnings verification for miners from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), Establishing stringent criteria for mine operators that seek to self-insure, Increasing civil penalties for mine operators that fail to secure benefits, and Expanding the parties that the DOL can hold liable when an operator fails to secure benefits. Warner and Kaine have long worked to support miners, miner retirees, and their families. The senators successfully secured more than $600,000 for Norton Community Hospital and Black Lung Clinic in the committee-passed Fiscal Year 2025 government funding bill. The Inflation Reduction Act, which the senators helped pass, included a permanent extension of the Black Lung Disability Trust Fund’s excise tax at a higher rate, providing certainty for miners, miner retirees, and their families who rely on the fund to access benefits. This followed Warner and Kaine’s successful efforts to ensure that miners receive the pensions and health care they earned. Warner and Kaine also urged the Biden Administration to issue new silica standards to protect miners across America – a push that contributed to the release of those standards. The legislation has been endorsed by Appalachia Voices, Appalachian Citizens’ Law Center, the BlueGreen Alliance, the Sierra Club, and the United Mine Workers of America. A one-pager on the bill is available here. Full text of the bill is available here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=7D740A02-4CDD-46E4-AAFB-510065DD8C42,"Warner, Kaine, Fetterman, McGarvey & Scott Introduce Legislation to Strengthen and Increase Accessibility of Black Lung Benefits for Miners",2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,VA,Mark R. Warner,W000805,www.warner.senate.gov,warner,https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner, Tim Kaine (both D-VA), and John Fetterman (D-PA) and U.S. Reps. Morgan McGarvey (D-KY-03) and Bobby Scott (D-VA-03), Ranking Member of the Committee on Education and Labor, reintroduced the Black Lung Benefits Improvement Act, legislation that would help miners who have suffered from black lung disease access the workers’ compensation and benefits they are entitled to receive under the federal Black Lung Benefits Program. This legislation significantly reduces barriers, such as rising inflation and costs-of-living, complex claims processes, and lack of legal representation, that prevent miners and their survivors from accessing benefits. “For generations, Virginia’s coal miners have made tremendous sacrifices to power America, literally risking their lives to fuel our nation,” said Sen. Warner. “The Black Lung Benefits Improvement Act will eliminate red tape and help miners and their families get easy access to the benefits, compensation, and legal representation they deserve.” “Our miners make tremendous sacrifices to keep our lights on, communities powered, and nation running,” said Sen. Kaine. “The Black Lung Benefits Improvement Act will help the brave miners and retirees impacted by black lung disease finally get the medical coverage and compensation they've earned.” “The job of a coal miner is often a dangerous and thankless one. Pennsylvania’s coal miners know the risk all too well,” said Sen. Fetterman. “It’s absolutely wrong when we have workers not receiving the benefits they were promised—zero exceptions. I’m proud to join my colleagues on the Black Lung Benefits Improvement Act so we do right by our coal miners and their families. They risk their lives every day for our great country and we should have their backs when they need us, not leave them behind.” “After paying for this country’s last energy revolution with their own health and safety, miners shouldn’t have to endure a costly, drawn-out legal process to prove they’ve earned their benefits,” said Rep. McGarvey. “Our bill would peg these benefits to inflation and make them easier to access, rather than letting these miners who have sacrificed so much be left further and further behind. I’m grateful for Senators Kaine and Fetterman and Ranking Member Scott’s continued dedication to strengthen black lung benefits, get miners the care they need, and uphold the dignity of financial security that they deserve.” “Decades ago, Congress established the Black Lung Benefits Act to provide monthly compensation and medical coverage for coal miners who develop black lung disease and are totally disabled. Unfortunately, the Government Accountability Office found that miners often lack the necessary medical and legal resources to develop evidence to prove their claims,” said Rep. Scott. “The Black Lung Benefits Improvement Act helps miners and their survivors access legal representation, ensures benefits are not eroded due to inflation, reduces the time for processing claims, and protects taxpayers from taking a hit when a self-insured coal company goes bankrupt and cannot pay black lung claims.” Many miners have developed coal workers’ pneumoconiosis—commonly referred to as “black lung”—a debilitating and deadly disease caused by the long-term inhalation of coal dust in underground and surface coal mines. In response, Congress passed the Black Lung Benefits Act in 1976 to provide monthly compensation and medical coverage for coal miners who develop black lung disease and are disabled. The Black Lung Benefits Improvement Act makes necessary updates to ensure Congress is fulfilling its commitment to the nation’s coal miners by: Automatically adjusting coal miners' benefits for inflation, Helping miners and their survivors secure legal representation by increasing the number of attorneys willing to take on black lung claims, Expanding the assistance provided by black lung clinics, Ensuring miners get assistance from the Department of Labor (DOL) in rebutting medical evidence, Improving access to CT scans to clarify medical eligibility, Requiring the DOL to address potential conflicts of interest with physicians providing medical exams, Accelerating the DOL’s access to employment and earnings verification for miners from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), Establishing stringent criteria for mine operators that seek to self-insure, Increasing civil penalties for mine operators that fail to secure benefits, and Expanding the parties that the DOL can hold liable when an operator fails to secure benefits. Sens. Warner and Kaine have long worked to support miners, miner retirees, and their families. The senators successfully secured more than $600,000 for Norton Community Hospital and Black Lung Clinic in the committee-passed Fiscal Year 2025 government funding bill. The Inflation Reduction Act, which the senators helped pass, included a permanent extension of the Black Lung Disability Trust Fund’s excise tax at a higher rate, providing certainty for miners, miner retirees, and their families who rely on the fund to access benefits. This followed Warner and Kaine’s successful efforts to ensure that miners receive the pensions and health care they earned. Warner and Kaine also urged the Biden Administration to issue new silica standards to protect miners across America – a push that contributed to the release of those standards. The legislation has been endorsed by Appalachia Voices, Appalachian Citizens’ Law Center, the BlueGreen Alliance, the Sierra Club, and the United Mine Workers of America. A one-pager on the bill is available here. Full text of the bill is available here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=87B58ADF-E43E-489C-9146-E0DD13FEA7DB,"Warner, Scott Honor Civil Rights Leader Barbara Johns at U.S. Capitol Statue Dedication",2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,VA,Mark R. Warner,W000805,www.warner.senate.gov,warner,https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) and Rep. Bobby Scott (D-VA-03) delivered remarks at the Congressional Statue Dedication Ceremony honoring Barbara Rose Johns, a Prince Edward County civil rights leader whose student-led strike and its subsequent lawsuit became one of five cases combined into Brown v. Board of Education, one of the most consequential Supreme Court decisions in our nation’s history. Her statue will represent Virginia in National Statuary Hall. “On April 23, 1951, a 16-year-old Barbara Johns led a walkout of students at the Robert Russa Moton High School in Farmville, Virginia, to protest school segregation and the discriminatory education conditions of Black students. Her courage forced this country to reckon with its conscience on a scale much larger than she ever could have imagined,” said Sen. Warner. “I’m proud to unveil Barbara Johns’ statue in the U.S. Capitol where she will represent the Commonwealth of Virginia and be recognized for the vital role she played in ending school segregation.” ""At the age of 16, Barbara Johns’ refused to accept inequality in our public schools. Her determination led to the lawsuit Davis v. County School Board of Prince Edward County, which ultimately became part of the landmark case of Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka. Her strength and unwavering belief in equality and justice helped change the entire nation for the better. It is hard to think of a better example of a Virginian to represent the Commonwealth in the United States Capitol,” said Rep. Scott. Under federal law, each state is represented by two statues in National Statuary Hall, selected by the state to honor notable individuals from its history. The Johns statue was recommended by Virginia’s Commission for Historical Statues to replace Virginia’s statue of Robert E. Lee in the U.S. Capitol. Sen. Warner and Rep. Scott are both cosponsors of the Confederate Monument Removal Act, legislation to remove statues of individuals who voluntarily served the Confederate States of America from display in National Statuary Hall in the U.S. Capitol. Sen. Warner has spoken publicly about the need to remove public symbols honoring the Confederacy as part of broader efforts to advance racial justice. As Governor, Sen. Warner helped establish a commission to build a monument on Capitol Square honoring Johns after his youngest daughter asked why the grounds did not include more diverse representation of famous Virginians. In the Senate, Sen. Warner has led efforts to expand the Brown v. Board of Education National Historical Site in Kansas and designate National Park Service (NPS) Affiliated areas, including the Moton Museum, which recognizes the central role of the Moton School in Farmville in ending school segregation. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=B47AC547-DC15-49E8-8024-5FF1F776F2EE,"Warner, Krishnamoorthi Introduce Legislation to Help Workers Adapt to AI-Driven Economy",2025-12-16,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,VA,Mark R. Warner,W000805,www.warner.senate.gov,warner,https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) and U.S. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) today introduced legislation to help American workers gain the skills they need to succeed as artificial intelligence, automation, and rapid technological change reshape the economy. The Investing in American Workers Act would modernize the tax code to encourage employers to invest in workforce training tied to recognized postsecondary credentials – particularly for lower- and moderate-income workers – so employees can adapt to new technologies, transition into emerging roles, and share in the gains of a rapidly evolving economy. “As artificial intelligence and automation transform nearly every sector of our economy, the question isn’t whether jobs will change – it’s whether workers will be given a fair shot to keep up. If we want the United States to lead in innovation, we must also lead in preparing workers for the jobs of the future,” said Sen. Warner. “Right now, our tax code rewards companies for investing in machines and software, but not nearly enough for investing in people. This bill applies a proven model, the R&D tax credit, to incentivize employers to offer workforce training, so workers can build new skills, businesses can stay competitive, and the benefits of technological change are more widely shared.” “Businesses across the country are still struggling to find workers with the training needed for today’s jobs, and workers need better access to affordable, employer-supported opportunities to build new skills,” said Rep. Krishnamoorthi. “This legislation expands access to high-quality training programs that help workers move into good, stable careers while strengthening the competitiveness of our businesses and growing the middle class. If we want the United States to remain the world’s economic leader, we must invest in the workers who drive our economy. When people have the skills they need to get ahead, our communities grow stronger and the entire country benefits.” As AI tools increasingly alter job requirements in sectors from manufacturing and logistics to health care, finance, and professional services, many workers lack access to affordable, employer-supported training. At the same time, businesses often face little incentive to make long-term investments in their employees. While the tax code offers a Research and Development (R&D) tax credit for investments in technology and capital assets, it provides no comparable incentive for workforce training. The Investing in American Workers Act addresses this gap by: Establishing a tax credit for employers who increase spending on worker training, equal to 20 percent of increased training expenditures for eligible workers earning $96,000 or less per year. Incentivizing high-quality, industry-aligned training, including registered apprenticeships, WIOA-certified programs, community college and career and technical education programs, and employer- or labor-sponsored training that leads to recognized postsecondary credentials. Encouraging participation by small businesses, allowing eligible small employers and tax-exempt entities to apply the credit against payroll taxes through a simplified filing process. Promoting accountability and transparency, including data collection to ensure training investments are reaching a diverse workforce. Supporters note that aligning workforce policy with the pace of technological change is critical to maintaining U.S. economic leadership and ensuring that AI-driven productivity gains benefit workers as well as employers. “The accelerating pace of change in the workplace is reshaping workforce needs and reinforcing the importance of proactive, sustained investment in skills. Workday strongly supports the reintroduction of the Investing in American Workers Act, which recognizes the critical role employers play in helping workers build the agility needed for the future of work. This legislation affirms a powerful truth: reskilling is not an operational burden, but a strategic investment in an organization’s most valuable resource – its people,” said Chandler Morse, Vice President of Public Policy, Workday. ""Workers need access to high-quality skills training, and employers need a workforce with the skills required to meet rapidly changing hiring needs. By incentivizing employer investments in training, including small businesses, this bill helps meet hiring needs while expanding workers’ access to good jobs and strengthening communities more broadly,” said Megan Evans, Senior Government Affairs Manager, National Skills Coalition. “AI is transforming jobs at unprecedented speed, putting many workers at risk of being left behind unless we act quickly to help them build new, in-demand skills before they exit the labor market. The Investing in American Workers Act offers a smart, scalable solution - modeled on the R&D credit - by incentivizing employers to expand high-quality training that leads to portable credentials and enables workers to advance while staying connected to the workforce,” said Maria Flynn, President & CEO, Jobs for the Future. The legislation has also been endorsed by the American Association of Community Colleges. Sen. Warner has long focused on the economic and workforce implications of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, and has repeatedly warned that chronic underinvestment in workers threatens both economic growth and American competitiveness. He recently introduced bipartisan legislation to track the number of jobs lost to AI by requiring major companies and federal agencies to report AI related layoffs to the Department of Labor to be compiled into a publicly available report. Text for the Investing in American Workers Act is available here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-slams-trump-administrations-scheme-to-eliminate-35000-health-care-positions-at-veterans-affairs-clinics,"Kaine Slams Trump Administration’s Scheme to Eliminate 35,000 Health Care Positions at Veterans Affairs Clinics",2025-12-15,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,VA,Tim Kaine,K000384,www.kaine.senate.gov,kaine,https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA) released the following statement regarding the Department of Veterans Affairs’ plans to abruptly eliminate as many as 35,000 health care positions this month: “Back in March, when I sounded the alarm about staffing levels at the new Veterans Affairs (VA) facility in Chesapeake, VA Secretary Doug Collins called me a liar. While I don’t expect an apology, America’s veterans—who will be forced to wait longer to see fewer doctors because of Collins’ plans to axe 35,000 VA health care workers—deserve one. This news is dangerous and reckless—but not surprising. President Trump fired more veterans in his first few weeks in office alone than any other U.S. President. Congress must provide critical oversight and do everything possible to protect our veterans from this shameless Administration.” Senate Democrats proposed legislation in July to prevent the Trump Administration from baselessly firing veterans from the federal workforce. Senate Republicans blocked it. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-warner-and-mcguire-applaud-committee-passage-of-wintergreen-emergency-egress-act,"Kaine, Warner, & McGuire Applaud Committee Passage of Wintergreen Emergency Egress Act",2025-12-15,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,VA,Tim Kaine,K000384,www.kaine.senate.gov,kaine,https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Tim Kaine and Mark R. Warner (both D-VA) and U.S. Representative John McGuire (R-VA-05) applaud the advancing of the Wintergreen Emergency Egress Act, bipartisan legislation to issue a right-of-way to add an additional emergency route and road to enhance public safety in Wintergreen, Virginia—a popular tourist destination off the Blue Ridge Parkway in Nelson County. The Wintergreen community currently has only one entrance and exit route, presenting a significant safety concern if there were to be an evacuation due to a natural disaster. This legislation would direct the Secretary of the Interior to finish a new emergency route—ensuring residents and visitors have an alternative evacuation route—while minimizing disturbance to federal land. “There is currently only one road for entry to and exit out of Wintergreen, and residents have shared their concerns with me about the risks that poses if there is an emergency,” said Kaine. “I’m proud to be introducing this bipartisan legislation to support the construction of a new road and enhance public safety.” “Currently, there is only one road in and out of Wintergreen, posing a great risk to residents and first responders in the event of an emergency,” said Warner. “This legislation takes the first step towards fixing this potentially life-threatening problem and prioritizing public safety during a natural disaster or emergency situation.” “I am proud to introduce this legislation which will help solve an over 25-year problem for the town of Wintergreen and puts public safety first,” said McGuire. “The danger posed by limited evacuation routes is well documented. The difference between survival and catastrophe comes down to whether there is more than one way out during times of emergency. I’m proud to have the support of seven of my House colleagues in the Virginia Delegation and both of Virginia’s Senators on this straightforward bill that prioritizes public safety."" Wintergreen is home to the very popular Wintergreen Resort, but it has only one entrance and exit road, creating a serious safety risk for the thousands of residents and visitors who rely on it. Without an additional emergency evacuation route, lives could be endangered during a natural disaster or crisis. The Wintergreen Emergency Egress Act would authorize the construction of a crucial emergency exit on National Park Service land, providing the community with a safe, reliable way out when it matters most. Full text of the legislation is available here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/video-kaine-statement-ahead-of-unveiling-of-barbara-rose-johns-statue-in-us-capitol,Video: Kaine Statement Ahead of Unveiling of Barbara Rose Johns Statue in U.S. Capitol,2025-12-15,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,VA,Tim Kaine,K000384,www.kaine.senate.gov,kaine,https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA) released the following statement ahead of tomorrow’s unveiling ceremony of the Barbara Rose Johns statue at the U.S. Capitol: “There is a line in the Book of Isaiah, ‘And a little child shall lead them,’ that reminds me of Barbara Rose Johns and the incredible bravery and leadership she displayed when she walked out of Moton High School in Farmville. I’m thrilled that millions of visitors to the U.S. Capitol, including many young people, will now walk by her statue and learn about her story. May she continue to inspire generations to stand up for equality and justice.” In 1951, Barbara Rose Johns led her classmates in a strike to protest substandard conditions at Robert Russa Moton High School that led to legal action against Prince Edward County. That case became one of five that the U.S. Supreme Court reviewed in Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka when it declared segregation unconstitutional. Barbara Rose Johns was selected by the Commission on Historical Statues to replace the Robert E. Lee statue that was one of Virginia’s two statues in the U.S. Capitol. In 2020, Kaine watched the Robert E. Lee statue being removed from the Capitol. Video Kaine recorded of the Robert E. Lee statue’s removal from the Capitol is available here. As Lieutenant Governor, Kaine served on the commission that created the Virginia Civil Rights Memorial. When Kaine was Governor, he unveiled the Civil Rights Memorial featuring Barbara Rose Johns and others on Virginia Capitol Square in Richmond. Now, as Senator, Kaine looks forward to attending the unveiling of the new statue tomorrow. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/warner-and-kaine-statement-on-support-for-proposal-to-strengthen-virginias-child-welfare-system,Warner & Kaine Statement on Support for Proposal to Strengthen Virginia’s Child Welfare System,2025-12-15,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,VA,Tim Kaine,K000384,www.kaine.senate.gov,kaine,https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) released the following joint statement in support of a new proposal unveiled this afternoon to reform and strengthen Virginia’s child welfare system: “As former Governors, we know that Virginia’s economy and future depend on investments in the well-being of our youngest generations. That’s why we are pleased to see this new proposal to meaningfully reform Virginia’s child welfare system and better support children and families. Turning this vision into reality is going to take determination and a strong commitment to bipartisanship, and we urge leaders on both sides of the aisle in Richmond to come together, embrace this proposal, and get it done.” According to Virginia Children’s Partnership, Virginia ranks last nationwide in terms of the number of children ‘aging out’ of foster care—meaning becoming adults with no permanent home. Last year, 500 Virginians, or 20 percent of those in foster care, experienced this. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=C9987C0E-F551-4A14-BED7-32B642646E38,Warner & Kaine Statement on Support for Proposal to Strengthen Virginia's Child Welfare System,2025-12-15,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,VA,Mark R. Warner,W000805,www.warner.senate.gov,warner,https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) released the following joint statement in support of a new proposal unveiled this afternoon to reform and strengthen Virginia’s child welfare system: “As former Governors, we know that Virginia’s economy and future depend on investments in the well-being of our youngest generations. That’s why we are pleased to see this new proposal to meaningfully reform Virginia’s child welfare system and better support children and families. Turning this vision into reality is going to take determination and a strong commitment to bipartisanship, and we urge leaders on both sides of the aisle in Richmond to come together, embrace this proposal, and get it done.” According to Virginia Children’s Partnership, Virginia ranks last nationwide in terms of the number of children ‘aging out’ of foster care—meaning becoming adults with no permanent home. Last year, 500 Virginians, or 20 percent of those in foster care, experienced this. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/warner-kaine-announce-federal-funding-for-virginia-airports,"Warner, Kaine Announce Federal Funding for Virginia Airports",2025-12-12,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,VA,Tim Kaine,K000384,www.kaine.senate.gov,kaine,https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) announced $620,060 in federal grant funding for infrastructure upgrades to three Virginia airports. This funding is awarded through the Department of Transportation’s Federal Aviation Administration Airport Infrastructure Grant (AIG) program for FY26, which is made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law that the senators helped negotiate and pass. “This investment in Virginia airports will help open doors for travelers and businesses across the Commonwealth,” said the senators. “We’re proud to announce funding that improves our infrastructure and passenger experience, and helps train Virginia’s next generation of pilots.” The program grants will be distributed as follows: The Emporia-Greensville Airport Commission will receive $109,000 to assist in the construction of a T-hangar for aircraft storage at the Emporia-Greensville Regional Airport (EMV). Virginia Aviation Associates, L.L.C. will receive $226,050 to expand an existing fuel farm at Hampton Roads Executive Airport (KPVG) by adding two fuel tanks with two self-service pumps. The City of Suffolk will receive $285,000 to assist in the construction of a hangar for aircraft at the Suffolk Executive Airport. Warner and Kaine have been fierce supporters of efforts to modernize Virginia’s airports. Earlier this year, the senators announced over $2 million in federal funding from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to modernize infrastructure for three of Virginia’s regional and international travel hubs. Last year, the senators announced over $46 million in federal funding from the Airport Improvement Program (AIP) to improve airports across the Commonwealth. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law has brought billions of dollars in investments to Virginia, including resources to repair roads and bridges, expand broadband access, improve airports, ports and waterways, and modernize public transportation. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=18802E9F-766F-4856-B68A-57C2274153F6,Warner Sponsors Bipartisan Amendment to NDAA to Improve Aviation Safety,2025-12-12,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,VA,Mark R. Warner,W000805,www.warner.senate.gov,warner,https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) sponsored an amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) to strike Section 373, a reckless provision that could undo key safety measures implemented over the Capital region airspace following the January 29, 2025, collision between American Airlines Flight 5342 and an Army Black Hawk helicopter near Ronald Reagan National Airport (DCA), and replace it with the Rotorcraft Operations Transparency and Oversight Reform (ROTOR) Act. The bipartisan ROTOR Act was unanimously passed by the Commerce Committee earlier this year and includes critical air safety measures championed by Sen. Warner. “The current version of the NDAA would make flying into the Capital region significantly less safe,” said Sen. Warner. “Following the January 29 tragedy, I fought to implement safety measures and oversight practices to prevent a collision like this from ever happening again. The ROTOR Act preserves those safety measures and requires military aircraft to be equipped with advanced technology so they can better communicate their precise locations with control towers and other aircraft.” The bipartisan amendment to the NDAA: Protects key safety measures implemented over D.C. airspace: Eliminates Section 373 of the NDAA which would clear the way for military aircraft to switch from the safer ADS-B Out system that the military switched to for operations in the National Capital Region after the January 29 crash back to less precise systems like TCAS, which the Army helicopter was using on January 29. Section 373 also allows military commanders to waive military aircrafts’ location broadcasting system requirement entirely when flying in the region, creating a loophole that would increases the risk to the flying public. The Rotorcraft Operations Transparency and Oversight Reform (ROTOR) Act: Expands ADS-B In and Out Implementation for Commercial and Military Aircraft: Includes a provision mandating a clear 2031 deadline for aircraft operators to equip with ADS-B In technology to provide pilots increased situational awareness and provide traffic advisories and alerting for airport operations to reduce the risk of mid-air and runway collisions. All commercial (e.g. passenger, cargo, business), military and general aviation operators who are already required by the FAA to be equipped with ADS-B Out must also equip with ADS-B In technology by December 31, 2031. The agreement also ends many Department of Defense (DoD) longstanding ADS-B Out transmission exemptions that have allowed military and other government aircraft to fly near DCA and other busy airports without transmitting their location. Training flights, proficiency flights, and flights of Federal officials below Cabinet rank will no longer qualify for the exemption. The bill also requires a Government Accountability Office (GAO) review comparing pre- and post-reform use of exemptions, annual DOT Inspector General compliance audits, quarterly reporting requirements for all agencies performing sensitive government missions, and biannual reporting to Congress on the frequency of flights using any remaining exemptions, with special 14-day notification if agencies use exemptions five or more times per month. Requires Comprehensive Safety Reviews of DCA and All Major, Mid-size Airports: Requires a comprehensive FAA safety review of DCA airspace to assess how civil and military helicopter, drone, and emergency first responder flights impact commercial operations at airports and to better prevent future incidents. These reviews ensure a thorough evaluation of all non-commercial flight routes near the airport. The agreement requires the same comprehensive FAA safety review of other Class B airports and Class C airports, prioritizing safety reviews for airports with high volumes of mixed flight traffic. Sets New Level of Coordination and Information Sharing Between FAA and DoD: The bipartisan agreement requires each military service with an aviation component to establish a memorandum of understanding with the FAA to share appropriate aviation safety information and enhance coordination to prevent future incidents. Reviews Army Policies and Standards: Mandates an Army Inspector General audit evaluating coordination with FAA, pilot training standards, ADS-B usage compliance, helicopter maintenance protocols, and the Army's review of loss of separation incidents in the National Capital Region. Results must be transmitted to Congress and publicly released within 14 days of completion. Advances Next-Generation Collision Avoidance Technology (ACAS-X): Lays the foundation for advancing the deployment of next generation collision avoidance technology – known as the Airborne Collision Avoidance System-X (ACAS-X) and its variants that can deliver strong improvements for aviation safety. During NTSB’s hearings on the DCA collision, this technology was discussed due to its more versatile applications to helicopter operations. This technology provides better traffic conflict resolution alerts to pilots and can better prevent mid-air helicopter collisions at lower altitudes where existing collision avoidance technology does not activate. The agreement directs FAA to develop a strategic plan and roadmap for widespread adoption of the technology among aviation operators. Sen. Warner was closely involved with the investigation of the January 29th collision, meeting with first responders and offering condolences to the families and loved ones of the 67 lives lost immediately following the tragedy. He also saw through passage of a legislation to remember the victims of the crash. Sen. Warner also requested answers from FAA on its plans to protect the flying public in the wake of the January 29 collision. In March of this year, the Sen. Warner responded to the preliminary National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) report on the crash. He has also sounded the alarm for years about the need for increased safety for the flying public, including fighting against additional flights out of DCA that contribute to overcrowding. Text of the amendment is available here. Text of the ROTOR Act is available here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=9F89B97F-7B55-46EA-9157-53F8C3280600,Warner Applauds Senate Passage of Legislation to Strengthen VA Acquisitions & Accountability for Veterans,2025-12-12,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,VA,Mark R. Warner,W000805,www.warner.senate.gov,warner,https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – The U.S. Senate unanimously passed legislation advanced by U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) that would enact major reforms to the Department of Veterans Affairs’ (VA’s) acquisition processes to achieve improved outcomes for veterans. Through creating a centralized Office of Acquisition at the VA, the Acquisition Reform and Cost Assessment (ARCA) Act will allow the VA to define major acquisition programs, streamline oversight and contracting processes, enhance accountability through independent evaluations and reporting, and implement improved training for VA personnel. This will address known deficiencies in the VA’s current acquisition processes, all with the aim of strengthening the VA’s ability to achieve timely and cost-effective results for veterans across the country. “Our veterans, who have served and sacrificed for our country, deserve quick access to high-quality care, and a VA that works for them,” said Sen. Warner. “I’m proud to have worked with Chairman Moran and bipartisan colleagues to pass this legislation that reforms and modernizes the way the VA manages acquisitions and its contracting processes, strengthens accountability, and improves the experience of veterans and their clinicians.” In addition to Sen. Warner, this legislation was led by Sen. Jerry Moran (R-KS), with bipartisan cosponsors Sens. Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Jim Banks (R-IN), Angus King (I-ME), and Mike Rounds (R-SD). The full text of the legislation can be found here. This legislation will now be considered by the U.S. House of Representatives. Since 2018, the Government Accountability Office (GAO) has had the VA acquisition process on its “high risk list” and the VA Office of Inspector General (OIG) has released multiple reports stating a need for acquisition reform. “Vietnam Veterans of America supports the Acquisition Reform Cost Assessment Act. Veterans need systems and facilities delivered on time and on budget,” said James McCormick, Executive Director of Government Affairs, Vietnam Veterans of America. “Earlier this year, we backed S. 2412 to fix fragmentation across VA construction, leasing, acquisition, and logistics and to strengthen the acquisition workforce; ARCA complements that work by sharpening cost review and transparency on major programs. Together, these reforms improve delivery and accountability for veterans and taxpayers.” ""The Acquisition Reform and Cost Assessment Act (ARCA) delivers common sense, strategic acquisition reform to VA procurement operations. ARCA creates an Assistant Secretary of Veterans Affairs for Acquisition and Innovation and places all VA contracting officers and acquisition centers under this new office,” said Roger Waldron, President, Coalition for Common Sense in Government Procurement. “Consolidation of procurement operations will standardize practices, leverage resources, improve communication with industry, and streamline processes. The result will be a VA acquisition management framework that delivers essential goods and services to veterans more efficiently and at better value. The Coalition for Common Sense in Government Procurement (the Coalition) applauds the passage of this strategic acquisition reform legislation."" “PSC commends Chairman Moran and his co-sponsors for their bipartisan leadership in advancing meaningful, practical reform at the Department of Veterans Affairs,” said James Carroll, Chief Executive Officer, Professional Services Council. “The ARCA Act addresses long-standing structural challenges at VA and puts the Department in a stronger position to deliver technology and infrastructure that directly improve outcomes for veterans. With the dedicated leadership of Secretary Doug Collins, VA is now positioned to deliver best-in-class outcomes for our heroes. Collaboration across the aisle was essential to moving this legislation forward. The senators’ commitment to strengthening VA acquisition systems and infrastructure will help reduce program risk, expand competition, and accelerate the delivery of needed, modern capabilities across the VA enterprise.” Letters of support for the legislation from Vietnam Veterans of America and the National Veteran Small Business coalition can be found here and here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=E646B595-1649-4A84-B5E5-0A91E36BB79F,"Warner, Kaine Announce Federal Funding for Virginia Airports",2025-12-12,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,VA,Mark R. Warner,W000805,www.warner.senate.gov,warner,https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) announced $620,060 in federal grant funding for infrastructure upgrades to three Virginia airports. This funding is awarded through the Department of Transportation’s Federal Aviation Administration Airport Infrastructure Grant (AIG) program for FY26, which is made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law that the senators helped negotiate and pass. “This investment in Virginia airports will help open doors for travelers and businesses across the Commonwealth,” said the senators. “We’re proud to announce funding that improves our infrastructure and passenger experience, and helps train Virginia’s next generation of pilots.” The program grants will be distributed as follows: The Emporia-Greensville Airport Commission will receive $109,000 to assist in the construction of a T-hangar for aircraft storage at the Emporia-Greensville Regional Airport (EMV). Virginia Aviation Associates, L.L.C. will receive $226,050 to expand an existing fuel farm at Hampton Roads Executive Airport (KPVG) by adding two fuel tanks with two self-service pumps. The City of Suffolk will receive $285,000 to assist in the construction of a hangar for aircraft at the Suffolk Executive Airport. Sens. Warner and Kaine have been fierce supporters of efforts to modernize Virginia’s airports. Earlier this year, the senators announced over $2 million in federal funding from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to modernize infrastructure for three of Virginia’s regional and international travel hubs. Last year, the senators announced over $46 million in federal funding from the Airport Improvement Program (AIP) to improve airports across the Commonwealth. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law has brought billions of dollars in investments to Virginia, including resources to repair roads and bridges, expand broadband access, improve airports, ports and waterways, and modernize public transportation. ### ‘* High-quality photographs of Sen. Mark R. Warner are available for download here *",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-statement-ahead-of-critical-health-care-vote,Kaine Statement Ahead of Critical Health Care Vote,2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,VA,Tim Kaine,K000384,www.kaine.senate.gov,kaine,https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA), a member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee, released the following statement ahead of a vote on a three-year extension of enhanced Affordable Care Act (ACA) premium tax credits proposed by Senate Democrats. The credits are set to expire at the end of the year after Republicans failed to extend them as part of the budget bill they passed this summer to cut taxes for billionaires. “Later today, the Senate will vote on simple legislation to extend Affordable Care Act premium tax credits and prevent health care costs from sky-rocketing for millions of Americans and nearly four hundred thousand Virginians. I have heard from countless constituents about the difference this extension would make for their families, who are already struggling with high prices on everything else, from food to housing and energy. The floodlights will be on my Republican colleagues, who know that the American people—78 percent of whom support extending these tax credits—expect them to vote for this legislation. If they don’t, they could very well be replaced at the ballot box by someone who will.” A Kaiser Family Foundation survey found that 78 percent of the public say they want Congress to extend the enhanced tax credits. As a member of HELP, Kaine has long advocated for their extension. Thus far, Republicans have refused to cross the aisle to extend them. Nearly 400,000 Virginians are enrolled in marketplace coverage. Expiration of these credits is predicted to cause 94,000 Virginians to be unenrolled in health insurance through the marketplace, 50,000 Virginians to be uninsured, and hundreds of millions of dollars to be lost in federal funding and state gross domestic product. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=0E20C227-39B1-4A7B-8AEE-CC4C2451AAD7,Warner Applauds House Passage of His Bipartisan Bill to Repeal Union-Busting Executive Orders,2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,VA,Mark R. Warner,W000805,www.warner.senate.gov,warner,https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) released the following statement after the House of Representatives voted to pass the Protect America’s Workforce Act, bipartisan legislation to repeal two union-busting executive orders signed by President Trump and restore collective bargaining rights and workplace protections for federal workers: “Federal workers are the backbone of agencies that keep Americans safe, healthy, and informed. They inspect our food, support our troops, respond to natural disasters, and protect our safety. They deserve basic workplace protections that prevent retaliation, discrimination, and wrongful terminations. “Today’s bipartisan vote in the House is an important step toward undoing one of the most sweeping attacks on federal workers in our nation’s history. President Trump’s executive orders ripped away collective bargaining rights from more than a million public servants under a false national security pretext in order to make it easier to fire experienced, nonpartisan civil servants and replace them with political loyalists. “I’m grateful to my colleagues in the House, Democrats and Republicans alike, who stood up for these workers and rejected this administration’s union-busting campaign. Now it’s the Senate’s turn. I urge my colleagues to move quickly to pass this bipartisan bill so we can restore long-standing labor protections, safeguard the integrity of the civil service, and ensure the federal workforce can continue serving the American people.” The Protect America’s Workforce Act would repeal two executive orders issued earlier this year that revoked collective bargaining rights from the majority of federal employees and unilaterally canceled hundreds of thousands of existing union contracts. The legislation has earned broad support from labor unions representing federal workers across the country. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=F983B3E2-C240-4616-B1FC-6FBEF08C33AA,Warner Statement on Failed Vote to Preserve Health Care for Millions of Americans,2025-12-11,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,VA,Mark R. Warner,W000805,www.warner.senate.gov,warner,https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) released the statement below after voting to preserve the health care tax credits that are set to expire at the end of this year. The legislation, which would have extended these tax credits for three years, failed to advance in the Republican-led Senate by a vote of 51-48. “Enhanced Premium Tax Credits have put health insurance within reach for millions of Americans, including small business owners and employees, gig workers, and many other people who cannot count on employer-provided health care. The legislation put forth by Democrats today would have extended these tax credits for three years, providing Americans with certainty while allowing Congress to focus on improving our health care system and fixing its flaws. Today is a sad day for middle-class families, for parents with vulnerable children, and for people whose lives are better because they can buy their medications every month and see a doctor when they need to. “As my Republican colleagues prepare to leave town and spend the holidays with their loved ones, I’m thinking of the millions of American families who will be counting down the New Year knowing they’ll have to pay more, settle for less, or perhaps forgo health insurance altogether when the clock strikes midnight.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-statement-on-house-passage-of-fiscal-year-2026-national-defense-authorization-act,Kaine Statement on House Passage of Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,VA,Tim Kaine,K000384,www.kaine.senate.gov,kaine,https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) and Ranking Member of the SASC Subcommittee on Seapower, released the following statement after the House passed the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA): “I’m glad that the House voted to pass this year’s defense bill, which includes important provisions that will support servicemembers, military families, Virginia’s defense community, and our allies. However, I’m extremely disappointed that a provision I fought for to restore a bipartisan commission’s names of our military bases was taken out at the last minute because President Trump threatened to veto the entire defense bill—just like he did in 2020, even though it included a pay raise for servicemembers—to prevent changes to bases named for Confederates. Virginians were proud to honor Tech. Sgt. Van T. Barfoot, Lt. Gen. Arthur J. Gregg, Lt. Col. Charity Adams, and Dr. Mary Walker. It’s shameful that the Virginia bases won’t continue to be named after these four amazing individuals.” During the SASC markup of the FY26 NDAA, an amendment to restore the names of three Virginia military bases to those chosen by the bipartisan commission was passed by voice vote. The House Armed Services Committee similarly passed an amendment to restore the names of all military bases on a bipartisan basis. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-statement-regarding-aviation-safety-provision-in-defense-bill,Kaine Statement Regarding Aviation Safety Provision in Defense Bill,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,VA,Tim Kaine,K000384,www.kaine.senate.gov,kaine,https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement regarding the aviation safety provision in the final, conferenced Fiscal Year 2026 defense bill: “I was proud to work alongside the families of those who lost loved ones in the January 29 crash near DCA to secure a provision in the Senate-passed annual defense bill to require all DOD aircraft that operate near commercial airports to be equipped with broadcast positioning technology. Congressional leaders watered my provision down to accommodate DOD concerns. While this final provision is a smaller step forward than I wanted, I will work to ensure that it won’t be the last. In the coming weeks, the NTSB and Army are releasing their reports regarding the crash, which will provide guidance as Congress considers additional steps the DOD and the FAA can take to avoid catastrophe in the future, including reducing commercial air traffic to and from DCA.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=17AAC418-25CD-49BE-B3C4-FFC5D767C583,"Ahead of Senate Vote, Warner, Shaheen Hold Spotlight Forum on the Disastrous Impacts of ACA Tax Credit Expiration",2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,VA,Mark R. Warner,W000805,www.warner.senate.gov,warner,https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Sens. Mark Warner (D-VA) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) hosted a spotlight forum underscoring the urgent need for Congress to extend the soon-expiring tax credits that have made health care more affordable for tens of millions of Americans. The spotlight forum, entitled “The Cost of Inaction: Why Congress Must Extend the Enhanced Premium Tax Credits”, featured several Democratic Senators and five witnesses and came ahead of a Senate vote Thursday on a Democratic proposal to extend the tax credits. Click HERE to watch the full forum and click HERE for media files. “Today we heard from Americans and their message was clear: health care tax credits save lives. These tax credits make it possible for Americans to navigate life with the certainty that they’ll be able to see a doctor, afford medication, and receive critical care when they need it,” said Sen. Warner. “In three short weeks, these and many more Americans will have to begin shouldering the financial burden of Republican inaction to the tune of hundreds of dollars per month. We cannot leave Americans in the lurch. We must extend ACA tax credits.” “The cost of inaction is too high for my Republican colleagues to ignore: It is past time for Congress to come together and pass an extension of the enhanced premium tax credits that ensure working families can afford health care. I was glad to host this forum with my colleague Senator Warner to emphasize how important these tax credits are and to hear directly from those who are going to be affected if they expire,” said Sen. Shaheen. “Here in Congress, we have the opportunity to address the concerns of millions of Americans who worry about the rising cost of health care. I’m calling on my colleagues across the aisle to join us to prevent millions of Americans from losing their health insurance.” In addition to Sens. Warner and Shaheen, Sens. Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Peter Welch (D-VT), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and Chris Coons (D-DE) spoke at the forum. Witnesses included: Katie Keith, Director of Georgetown University’s Center for Health Policy and the Law at the O’Neill Institute, Audrey Gasteier, Executive Director of Massachusetts Health Connector, Susan Stearns, Executive Director of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) New Hampshire, Kathleen Winters, Small Business Owner in Norfolk, Virginia and Kendra Bush, a Patient Advocate in Portage, Indiana. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=DBB3DB58-F5E7-46E0-A126-092BCE55190F,Warner Statement on Alarming NDAA Provision that Undermines Air Safety Over DCA,2025-12-10,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,VA,Mark R. Warner,W000805,www.warner.senate.gov,warner,https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases,scraper,"WASHINGTON –U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) released the following statement today on language in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that could undo key safety measures implemented over the D.C. airspace in the wake of the January 29, 2025 collision between American Airlines Flight 5342 and an Army Black Hawk helicopter near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA): “Buried in the NDAA, there is a provision that could make flying into the Capital region significantly less safe. The language in this provision could allow rolling back crucial new safety practices I fought to implement after the January 29 tragedy, and give the Department of Defense more discretion over safety procedures in the region. After what happened in January, it’s clear that we cannot rely on the DoD alone to be the safety authority over its flights in this area and that we need more, not less, oversight to prevent another tragedy from ever occurring again. I will be speaking to the DoD and my colleagues in Congress to highlight the significant safety risk presented by this provision.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-colleagues-applaud-senate-passage-of-bipartisan-bill-to-counter-foreign-cyber-scams,"Kaine, Colleagues Applaud Senate Passage of Bipartisan Bill to Counter Foreign Cyber Scams",2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,VA,Tim Kaine,K000384,www.kaine.senate.gov,kaine,https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA) applauds the Senate passage of the Scam Compound Accountability and Mobilization (SCAM) Act, bipartisan legislation he cosponsored to counter foreign cyber scams and hold transnational criminal organizations accountable for human trafficking, forced criminality, and cyber-enabled fraud schemes targeting Americans. “Transnational criminal organizations across the world are stealing billions from Americans by forcing human trafficking victims to commit cybercrimes,” said Kaine. “I’m proud the Senate passed a bipartisan bill I cosponsored to help ensure criminal organizations are held accountable and prevent scammers from preying on innocent Americans.” Transnational criminal organizations (TCOs) across the globe—many of which are based in Southeast Asia and affiliated with the People’s Republic of China (PRC)—are increasingly conducting large-scale cyber scam operations against Americans. By deceptively luring victims under false pretenses to a secure facility, also known as a scam compound, TCOs are then forcing these trafficked captives to commit cybercrimes under duress and defrauding Americans out of billions of dollars annually. In 2024, the FBI reported nearly $14 billion in losses in the United States due to cyber-enabled fraud. While the PRC has cracked down on scam compounds that target Chinese citizens, it is turning a blind eye to those that defraud Americans. The SCAM Act would address this issue by: Requiring the U.S. Secretary of State, in consultation with the U.S. Attorney General, U.S. Secretary of the Treasury, and other relevant departments and agencies, to submit to Congress a comprehensive strategy to counter scam compounds by preventing recruitment fraud, enhancing the capabilities of partner governments and law enforcement agencies to stop scam compounds and associated money laundering, supporting survivors of human trafficking, and holding accountable countries that enable or permit scam compound operations; Establishing a task force to implement the strategy over a six-year period, evaluate its progress, and submit an annual report to Congress detailing its effectiveness; Allowing the President to use International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) sanctions against foreign persons who support or enable international scam compound operations; and Requesting a report from the Department of Justice (DOJ) on recommendations for a potential mechanism to provide financial redress to U.S. citizens who are victims of scam operations. The legislation is led by U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH). In addition to Kaine, the legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Rick Scott (R-FL), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), James Lankford (R-OK), and Jacky Rosen (D-NV). The legislation has been endorsed by AARP. Full text of the SCAM Act can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=E186C8A5-E7DA-4064-9470-1CC9ED703EF4,Warner's Statement on Trump's Greenlighting of Nvidia H200 Chips to China,2025-12-09,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,VA,Mark R. Warner,W000805,www.warner.senate.gov,warner,https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases,scraper,"WASHINGTON –U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA), Vice Chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence and author of the bipartisan law to invest in domestic semiconductor manufacturing, released the following statement on the Trump administration’s announcement that it would allow American chipmaker Nvidia to send H200 chips to China: “American companies must remain the undisputed leader in AI hardware because our strategic competition with China on AI will boil down to whose ecosystem drives adoption and innovation globally, as NVIDIA has acknowledged. Unfortunately, the Trump administration’s haphazard and transactional approach to export policy demonstrates that it does not have any sort of coherent strategy for how we will compete with China, specifically as it relates to whose chips, tools, cloud infrastructure, and ecosystem will influence the most AI developers worldwide. I fear that with no strategic vision for that broader competition across multiple key dimensions of AI innovation, this administration risks squandering U.S. AI leadership and deferring to the People’s Republic of China up and down the AI stack.” ### * High-quality photographs of Sen. Mark R. Warner are available for downloadhere*",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-and-young-applaud-inclusion-of-bipartisan-legislation-to-formally-end-iraq-wars-in-fy26-ndaa,Kaine & Young Applaud Inclusion of Bipartisan Legislation to Formally End Iraq Wars in FY26 NDAA,2025-12-08,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,VA,Tim Kaine,K000384,www.kaine.senate.gov,kaine,https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA) and Todd Young (R-IN) applauded the inclusion of their bipartisan bill to repeal the 1991 and 2002 Authorizations for Use of Military Force (AUMFs) against Iraq in the final conferenced version of the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The Senate and House voted to include Kaine and Young’s legislation as amendments to the FY26 NDAA. “It has been more than half a century since the United States repealed a war authorization and formally ended an armed conflict. After years of hard work alongside colleagues on both sides of the aisle, advocates, veterans, and military families, I’m glad that we are one step closer to finally repealing the 1991 and 2002 Authorizations for Use of Military Force against Iraq,” said Kaine, a member of the Senate Armed Services and Foreign Relations Committees. “When President Trump signs this legislation into law, it will be a historic victory for our country and for the American people who want to finally close the book on this endless war.” “I’ve been pushing for years to repeal these outdated AUMFs, and I am pleased that they are included in the final NDAA,” said Young, a member of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence. “It’s time to close the book on these forever wars once and for all. Thank you to my colleagues and President Trump for ensuring this important provision remained in the final bill.” Kaine and Young’s bill has garnered strong bipartisan support since they first introduced it in 2019. The House voted to repeal the 1991 and 2002 AUMFs in June 2021. The Senate did so in March 2023, but because the votes did not occur during the same congressional session, the legislation did not become law. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-colleagues-condemn-trumps-pardon-of-ex-honduran-president-and-drug-kingpin-juan-orlando-hernandez,"Kaine, Colleagues Condemn Trump’s Pardon of Ex-Honduran President and Drug Kingpin Juan Orlando Hernández",2025-12-05,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,VA,Tim Kaine,K000384,www.kaine.senate.gov,kaine,https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA), who lived in Honduras in 1980 and 1981 and serves as Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on the Western Hemisphere, and eleven Democratic Senators introduced a resolution condemning President Donald Trump’s pardon of Juan Orlando Hernández, the former two-term President of Honduras who was sentenced to 45 years in prison and fined $8 million for drug trafficking and weapons conspiracy charges. The resolution emphasizes how President Trump’s pardon of Hernández’s vast crimes weakens the rule of law and severely harms the United States’ credibility in combating global drug trafficking. The resolution also outlines how President Trump’s pardon is an affront to the extraordinary efforts of federal law enforcement and judicial officials who investigated and prosecuted Hernández, as well as to the jurors who performed their civic duty in convicting him. “Trump’s pardon of Juan Orlando Hernández – a narcotrafficking kingpin who bragged about ‘shoving the drugs up the noses of the gringos’ as he flooded U.S. communities with more than 400 tons of cocaine – is disgusting,” said Kaine. “This pardon is so bizarre that it’s difficult to fathom any reason why this would happen other than that someone in Trump’s circle is personally benefitting from it. Convicted drug kingpins should be in prison, end of story.” Hernández was at the center of one of the largest and most violent drug-trafficking conspiracies in the world for nearly two decades. During his tenure as President of Honduras and in the Honduran National Congress, Hernández abused his positions and authority to facilitate the importation of over 400 tons of cocaine into the United States—enough for approximately 4.5 billion individual doses. As President, Hernández also selectively supported and took credit for extraditions to the United States of certain drug traffickers who threatened his grip on power, including directing the Honduran National Police and military to protect smugglers who paid him off, promising that he would shield them from extradition to the United States. Hernández and his co-conspirators were convicted and sentenced to prison in the United States for their abuse of Honduran institutions to protect and grow their conspiracy. The resolution was led by U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-VT) and cosponsored by Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Ron Wyden (D-OR), and John Fetterman (D-PA). This week, Kaine gave a floor speech denouncing Trump’s pardon of Hernández and the illegal strikes on boats in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific Ocean. Click here to watch the full speech. Full text of the resolution can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/video-kaine-bennet-colleagues-reintroduce-medicare-x-choice-act-to-make-health-care-more-affordable-and-accessible,"Video: Kaine, Bennet, Colleagues Reintroduce Medicare-X Choice Act to Make Health Care More Affordable and Accessible",2025-12-05,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,VA,Tim Kaine,K000384,www.kaine.senate.gov,kaine,https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news,scraper,"VIDEO AVAILABLE HERE WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA), a member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee, and Michael Bennet (D-CO) reintroduced the Medicare-X Choice Act, legislation that would create a public option by building on the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and Medicare frameworks. The Medicare Exchange (Medicare-X) plan would offer families, individuals, and small businesses affordable health insurance, decrease the number of uninsured Americans, control the cost of health care, and increase competition in the health insurance market. This bill comes as more than 14 million Americans are set to lose their health care coverage as a result of Republicans’ $1 trillion cut to Medicaid and the expiration of critical premium tax credits. “Access to high-quality and affordable health care is essential to the health and well-being of our communities. This year, Republicans have decimated health care and have yet to come to the table to extend critical enhanced premium tax credits to prevent health care costs from skyrocketing. My hope is that in the coming days, my Republican colleagues will join us in voting for legislation to extend critical enhanced premium tax credits while we work together on long-term solutions to expand care,” said Kaine. “One of those solutions is passing my Medicare-X Choice Act to provide Americans with another option to get affordable health insurance.” “Our health care system repeatedly fails to give working Americans the care they need,” said Bennet. “Now, millions face even greater barriers to accessing affordable health care due to the largest cuts to Medicaid in history. Countless families are also grappling with the possibility of losing their coverage due to skyrocketing premiums as time runs out to extend critical ACA tax credits. In the wake of a looming health care crisis, Medicare-X will give everyone an affordable option regardless of where they live, reduce health care costs, and improve the quality of available insurance. We have a responsibility to create the best health care system possible, achieve universal coverage in our country, and save millions of Americans from being thrown off their health insurance. We can do that through Medicare-X.” The ACA expanded health insurance coverage to an additional 20 million Americans, established critical protections for patients with pre-existing conditions, and standardized essential health benefits for all qualified plans. However, many Americans still face high health care costs and limited options for affordable insurance. This legislation would work within the Medicare and ACA frameworks to establish a Medicare Exchange public option plan in every county in America for individuals, families, and small businesses, providing an additional, affordable option in all communities. It would also permanently extend enhanced premium tax credits to make all exchange options even more affordable. Medicare-X plans would cover essential health benefits like other qualified health plans, including maternity and newborn care, pediatric services, and mental and behavioral health care. The plan expands on these benefits by covering primary care services without any cost-sharing for plan holders. A 2022 report from the Urban Institute showed that Medicare-X would reduce the number of uninsured people by 1.1 million, save households $10.9 billion, and cut spending on health care by $456 billion over a ten year period. In addition to Kaine and Bennet, the legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Tina Smith (D-MN), Rev. Raphael Warnock (D-GA), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN). Kaine and Bennet first introduced the Medicare-X Choice Act in 2017. Full text of the resolution is available here. A summary is available here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-merkley-introduce-bill-to-prohibit-federal-funds-to-pay-for-war-against-venezuela,"Kaine, Merkley Introduce Bill to Prohibit Federal Funds to Pay for War Against Venezuela",2025-12-04,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,VA,Tim Kaine,K000384,www.kaine.senate.gov,kaine,https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA) and Jeff Merkley (D-OR), members of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, introduced the Prohibiting Unauthorized Military Action in Venezuela Act of 2025 to prohibit the use of federal funds for any use of military force in or against Venezuela without explicit Congressional authorization. “We shouldn’t stumble into an unnecessary war with Venezuela—risking U.S. servicemembers’ lives—with no congressional authorization and incomplete information about the Administration’s objectives, its legal rationale, and the potential consequences of a long-term conflict that could drive migration and irreparably fracture Venezuela,” said Kaine. “This legislation would prevent us from doing that, and I urge my colleagues to support it and reclaim the solemn responsibilities on matters of war and peace assigned to Congress by the Constitution.” “Congress cannot stand by while Donald Trump wages war without authorization,” said Merkley. “Nicolás Maduro is a brutal dictator, but that does not provide justification for the Trump Administration to ignore U.S. law to carry out these unconstitutional military strikes. Donald Trump cannot be trusted, and we must say no to another endless war, reckless regime change, and lethal operations—which are essentially extrajudicial killings—and do nothing to make the American people safer.” Kaine and Merkley’s bill does not prevent the United States from acting to defend itself or its citizens from an armed attack or threat of an imminent armed attack, pursue lawful counternarcotics operations, or provide humanitarian assistance to the Venezuelan people. The Prohibiting Unauthorized Military Action in Venezuela Act of 2025 is also co-sponsored by Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-MD). “The Trump Administration has amassed the largest naval buildup in the Caribbean in decades and committed extrajudicial killings in international waters amounting either to murder or war crimes. Congress has not authorized this Administration to take these offensive actions, and with good reason – the American people do not want to start another war. We must put a stop to this by passing this simple measure to prevent U.S. taxpayer dollars from funding the Trump Administration’s manufactured conflict with Venezuela,” said Van Hollen. Kaine has been a leading voice in Congress raising concerns over presidents’ efforts to expand the use of military force without Congressional authorization. Full text of the Prohibiting Unauthorized Military Action in Venezuela Act of 2025 can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/warner-and-kaine-announce-over-20-million-in-federal-grants-for-virginia-firefighters,Warner & Kaine Announce Over $20 Million in Federal Grants for Virginia Firefighters,2025-12-04,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,VA,Tim Kaine,K000384,www.kaine.senate.gov,kaine,https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) announced over $20 million in federal funding for Virginia fire departments, localities, and organizations. This funding is awarded by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and made possible by the Fire Grants and Safety Act, legislation supported by Sens. Warner and Kaine that reauthorized the Assistance for Firefighters (AFG) and the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Resources (SAFER) grant programs. The AFG and SAFER grant programs are used by fire departments and localities to address staffing needs, purchase equipment, develop fire training and education programs, and improve emergency medical services. “Every day, Virginia’s firefighters risk their lives to help and protect our communities,” said the senators. “We are pleased to announce more than $20 million in federal funding that will go towards ensuring our fire departments have the support, training, and resources they need.” The Assistance for Firefighters (AFG) grant program helps firefighters and other first responders obtain critically needed equipment, protective gear, emergency vehicles, training, and other resources necessary for protecting the public and emergency personnel from fire and related hazards. A total of $3,832,551 was awarded to 17 Virginia localities and fire departments for the 2024 Fiscal Year. The grants are awarded as follows: Prince Edward District Court: $135,069 City of Chesapeake: $93,947 The Bloxom Volunteer Fire Department: $107,333 Bassett Volunteer Fire Company, Incorporated: $58,083 Simmonsville Volunteer Fire Department: $34,149 City of Petersburg: $74,890 Appalachia Volunteer Fire Department: $108,095 County of Shenandoah: $996,363 Town of Wytheville Town Hall: $114,285 Woolwine Volunteer Fire Department Inc: $408,000 County of Chesterfield: $400,000 City of Virginia Beach: $110,000 Bachelors Hall Vol Fire Dept Inc: $237,482 Town of Pembroke Volunteer Fire Department: $225,047 County of Lousia: $409,298 Fork Mountain Volunteer Fire Department, Incorporated: $132,190 Alberta Volunteer Fire Department, Inc: $188,320 The Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant program provides funding directly to fire departments and volunteer firefighter interest organizations to help them increase or maintain the number of trained, ""front line"" firefighters available in their communities. A total of $15,951,761 was awarded to seven Virginia localities and fire departments for the 2024 Fiscal Year. The grants are awarded as follows: County of Fauquier: $4,500,635 County of Lousia: $1,698,974 City of Roanoke: $1,197,887 Loudoun Fire Rescue Emergency: $3,977,814 County of Shenandoah: $3,444,108 Bedford Volunteer Fire Department: $258,000 City of Winchester: $874,343 The Fire Prevention and Safety (FP&S) grants are part of the AFG grant program and support projects that enhance the safety of the public and firefighters from fire and related hazards. The primary goal is to reduce injury and prevent death among high-risk populations. A total of $654,896 was awarded to two Virginia fire departments and organizations for the 2024 Fiscal Year. The grants are awarded as follows: South Hill Volunteer Department, Inc: $10,134 International Society of Fire Service Instructors: $654,762 Warner and Kaine are strong supporter of the Commonwealth’s firefighters, and previously voted to pass the Fire Grants and Safety Act in June 2024. Warner has visited fire stations in Richmond and Suffolk and following the 2024 wildfires across the Shenandoah Valley, met with first responders in Harrisonburg to discuss federal resources for firefighters. In 2024, Kaine met with firefighters from Richmond and Henrico to discuss the reauthorization of the AFG and SAFER Grant programs. He also met with the incoming President of the Virginia Professional Firefighters earlier this year. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=044BB8E9-B0C0-43A0-AF3E-B3CA5E7F7555,Warner and Colleagues Reintroduce Legislation to Strengthen Cybersecurity in Health Care,2025-12-04,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,VA,Mark R. Warner,W000805,www.warner.senate.gov,warner,https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Sens. Mark Warner (D-VA), Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), and John Cornyn (R-TX) reintroduced the Health Care Cybersecurity and Resilience Act to protect Americans’ health data by strengthening cybersecurity. This legislation is a product of the senators’ bipartisan health care cybersecurity working group launched in 2023. “Cyberattacks on our health care organizations threaten the sensitive information of millions of Americans and can have life-or-death consequences on the care patients receive,” said Sen. Warner. “I’m glad to join my colleagues in introducing this bill to strengthen our cybersecurity, protect patients, and provide additional tools for rural health care providers in Virginia.” “Cyberattacks on our health care sector not only put patients’ sensitive health data at risk but can delay life-saving care,” said Dr. Cassidy. “This bipartisan legislation ensures health institutions can safeguard Americans’ health data against increasing cyber threats.” “Cyberattacks in the health care sector can have a wide range of devastating consequences, from exposing private medical information to disrupting care in ERs – and it can be particularly difficult for medical providers in rural communities with fewer resources to prevent and respond to these attacks,” said Sen. Hassan. “Our bipartisan working group came together to develop this legislation based on the most pressing needs for medical providers and patients, and I urge my colleagues to support it.” “Patients deserve absolute confidence that their sensitive medical data stored online is protected and shielded from cybersecurity breaches or ransomware attacks,” said Sen. Cornyn. “This legislation would strengthen interagency coordination and improve security practices for rural providers, ensuring Texans’ health care is not delayed or compromised by cyberattacks.” The Health Care Cybersecurity and Resiliency Act of 2025: Strengthens cybersecurity in the health care sector by providing grants to health entities to improve cyberattack prevention and response. Provides training to health entities on cybersecurity best practices. Supports rural communities by providing best practices to rural health clinics and other providers on cybersecurity breach prevention, resilience, and coordination with federal agencies. Improves coordination between the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) to better respond to cyberattacks in the health care sector. Modernizes current regulations so entities covered under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) use the best cybersecurity practices. Requires the HHS Secretary to develop and implement a cybersecurity incident response plan. Click here for full bill text. BACKGROUND Health records, unlike other personal records like credit card numbers, are more valuable on the black market since health conditions are permanent and cannot be reissued. There were more than 730 cyber breaches last year, affecting over 270 million Americans. This includes the attack on Change Healthcare, the largest health care cybersecurity incident in history. This attack exposed the data of over 190 million people, leading to significant delays in care and electronic prescribing.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=895452A7-9FD7-49F9-89AD-4F185C38AE99,Warner Kicks Off the Holiday Season with Tree Trimming Party,2025-12-04,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,VA,Mark R. Warner,W000805,www.warner.senate.gov,warner,https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases,scraper,"Facebook Twitter Email Print Warner Kicks Off the Holiday Season with Tree Trimming Party Dec 04 2025 CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD BROADCAST-QUALITY B-ROLL AND PHOTOGRAPHY FROM SEN. WARNER’S TREE DECORATION THE NORTH POLE – U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) is ready for Christmas! Today, Sen. Warner welcomed 3 rd and 4 th grade students from Woodburn Elementary School in Fairfax County, VA to his Capitol Hill office to kick off the holiday season with tunes, milk and cookies, and Christmas tree decorating. This year, Sen. Warner’s office has two trees, a 12-foot and a 7-foot Fraser fir from Mt. Rogers Tree Farm in Grayson County, VA. Students helped Sen. Warner decorate his tree with handmade ornaments and then had fun coloring and playing games! Sen. Warner has hosted students from across the Commonwealth to help him get in the holiday spirit nearly every year since taking office in 2009. ### * High-quality photographs of Sen. Mark R. Warner are available for download here * Photos may be used online and in print, and can be attributed to ‘The Office of Sen. Mark R. Warner’ Permalink: https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2025/12/warner-kicks-off-the-holiday-season-with-tree-trimming-party",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T15:11:15Z https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-paul-schumer-and-schiff-file-war-powers-resolution-on-venezuela,"Kaine, Paul, Schumer, & Schiff File War Powers Resolution on Venezuela",2025-12-03,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,VA,Tim Kaine,K000384,www.kaine.senate.gov,kaine,https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA) and Rand Paul (R-KY), Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer (D-NY), and U.S. Senator Adam Schiff (D-CA) filed a War Powers Resolution to block the use of the U.S. Armed Forces to engage in hostilities within or against Venezuela unless authorized by Congress. President Donald Trump said yesterday that there would be strikes on land “very soon.” The War Powers Resolution is privileged, and may be called up for a vote on the Senate floor in 10 days. “Although President Trump campaigned on no more wars, he and his Administration are unilaterally moving us closer to one with Venezuela—and they are doing so without providing critical information to the American people about the campaign’s overall strategy, its legal rationale, and the potential fallout from a prolonged conflict, which includes increased migration to our border. The Administration claims that military action is needed to address the real scourge of drugs in our communities, but at the same time, pardons convicted narcotraffickers, slashes funding for substance use and drug court programs, and chooses against interdicting these alleged drug boats that would allow us to find and prosecute the kingpins responsible for trafficking drugs,” said Kaine, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on the Western Hemisphere. “We should not be risking the lives of our nation’s servicemembers to engage in military action within Venezuela without a robust debate in Congress. This is why the Framers gave the power to declare war to Congress, not the President.” “The American people do not want to be dragged into endless war with Venezuela without public debate or a vote,” said Paul. “We ought to defend what the Constitution demands: deliberation before war.” “Since the founding of our Republic, the Constitution has vested one power clearly and exclusively in Congress: the power to declare war. Let’s be clear: Congress has not declared war on Venezuela,” said Leader Schumer. “There is nothing ‘America-first’ about sending U.S. troops into danger for a mission the administration cannot justify, cannot explain, and has no legal authority to launch. The American people do not want to be dragged into a needless, open-ended war. If the White House moves ahead with strikes on Venezuelan territory, the Senate will act immediately to stop an illegal war and defend our constitutional powers.” “President Trump's pledge yesterday to begin strikes on Venezuelan territory 'very soon' should be the loudest alarm bell yet for our colleagues in Congress and our entire nation,” said Schiff. “We are being dragged into a war with Venezuela without legal basis or congressional authorization, and the Senate must be prepared to stop an illegal war that would needlessly place at risk thousands of American servicemembers. Americans do not want endless war.” Kaine, Paul, and Schiff previously introduced a bipartisan resolution to prevent the use of military force within or against Venezuela, but it did not receive enough Republican votes to pass. Kaine and Schiff also introduced a similar measure focused on repeated strikes in the southern Caribbean Sea that the Trump Administration has carried out without congressional authorization, killing dozens of unknown individuals. The legislation did not gain enough Republican support to pass. Full text of the resolution is available here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-vindman-and-valadao-lead-bipartisan-bicameral-effort-to-expand-digital-skills-in-workforce-training,"Kaine, Vindman & Valadao Lead Bipartisan, Bicameral Effort to Expand Digital Skills in Workforce Training",2025-12-03,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,VA,Tim Kaine,K000384,www.kaine.senate.gov,kaine,https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA) and U.S. Representatives Eugene Vindman (D-VA-07) and David Valadao (R-CA-22) introduced the Digital Skills for Today’s Workforce Act, bipartisan, bicameral legislation to expand access to digital skills training for American job seekers. “As Americans face a rapidly-changing job market, it’s crucial they be empowered with the digital skills they need to succeed in the contemporary workforce,” said Senator Kaine. “I’m proud to introduce this legislation to expand access to high-quality digital training programs to help people develop in-demand digital skills—benefiting our workers, employers, and economic growth. I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to join us in supporting this bill.” “Virginia is a place where anyone willing to work hard should be able to land their first job, keep a job they love, or build their first company. The jobs of today require new skills that can be mastered with the right training, helping employers retain seasoned workers and attract top talent,” said Representative Vindman. “I’m proud to introduce bipartisan, bicameral legislation that helps Virginians and people across the country build digital skills that are essential in today’s economy.” “Our job market is changing rapidly, and workers need strong digital skills to keep up,” said Representative Valadao. “The Digital Skills for Today’s Workforce Act will help people enter the workforce with the foundation they need while easing burdens on employers. I’m proud to join Senator Kaine and Congressman Vindman in reintroducing this bipartisan, bicameral bill that will set American workers on a path to success and strengthen our economy.” More than 90 percent of today’s jobs require digital skills like email, spreadsheets, or data entry – but more than one-third of workers lack foundational digital skills, posing a huge obstacle to entering and succeeding in today’s workforce. Existing programs to help job-seekers access employment and support services under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) are not permitted to use federal resources for digital skills training. As a result, one-stop workforce development career centers – physical sites within local workforce development areas where job seekers and employers can access programs, services, and resources – do not offer any digital skills training opportunities. To rectify this omission, the Digital Skills for Today’s Workforce Act would amend WIOA to establish a new “Digital Skills at Work” grant program to expand digital skills training within postsecondary education, adult education, and workforce development systems. This legislation would make targeted investments in digital skills training to help Americans seeking jobs or upskilling opportunities, as well as those with barriers to employment, learn or build digital skills. Specifically, the Digital Skills for Today’s Workforce Act would: Create digital skills training programs. This legislation would create formula funding grants for states based on a combination of population, number of working-age residents, and number of residents with low digital literacy skills (determined by educational attainment, earnings, and limited English proficiency). Increase digital equity. This bill would create competitive grants for localities and organizations based on how the funds will be used and the populations that will receive services, including individuals with barriers to employment and historically underrepresented populations. Require performance accountability. This legislation would require states, localities, and organizations that receive a grant under this bill to report their awards publicly. The legislation is supported by the National Skills Coalition, American Library Association, Asc3, California EDGE Coalition, Coalition on Adult Basic Education, DAETC, Digitunity, Forum for Youth Investment, Fredericksburg Chamber of Commerce, Greater Roanoke Workforce Development Board, Hispanic Federation, Jobs for the Future, Local Initiatives Support Corporation, Mohuman, National Coalition for Literacy, National Collaborative for Transformative Youth Policy, National Digital Inclusion Alliance, National Immigration Forum, National Skills Coalition, Northern Virginia Black Chamber of Commerce, Northern Virginia Chamber of Commerce, NTEN, Prince William Chamber of Commerce, Third Way, Virginia Association for Adult and Continuing Education (VAACE), Virginia Community College System, and Virginia Minority Chambers, Inc. “I commend Senator Tim Kaine for his introduction of the ‘Digital Skills for Today’s Workforce Act’ and enthusiastically endorse its passage in the 119th session of Congress. By including digital skills and related performance metrics as requirements for grants issued under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), this legislation would ensure that our workforce is being prepared for today’s and tomorrow’s jobs. There are practically no 21st century jobs that won’t require such skills--from basic data entry to business intelligence and virtual reality software. These skills are becoming increasingly critical to both small and large employers in every in-demand industry in the Commonwealth. Successful passage of this legislation will strengthen education and workforce development systems. In addition, business and industry employers will minimize turnover, and workers will be better prepared to achieve better jobs and greater economic success,” said Virginia Community College System Chancellor David Doré. Full bill text is available here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/walkinshaw-kaine-warner-introduce-bill-to-rename-fairfax-post-office-in-honor-of-the-late-gerry-connolly,"Walkinshaw, Kaine, Warner Introduce Bill to Rename Fairfax Post Office in Honor of the late Gerry Connolly",2025-12-03,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,VA,Tim Kaine,K000384,www.kaine.senate.gov,kaine,https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative James R. Walkinshaw (D-VA-11) and U.S. Senators Tim Kaine and Mark R. Warner (both D-VA) introduced bicameral legislation to rename a United States Postal Service facility in Fairfax, Virginia in honor of the late Congressman Gerald E. “Gerry” Connolly, whose decades of service and leadership transformed Northern Virginia and inspired a generation of public servants. The bill designates the USPS facility located at 10660 Page Avenue, Fairfax, VA 22030 as the “Congressman Gerald E. ‘Gerry’ Connolly Post Office Building.” “Gerry Connolly was a singular force for good in Fairfax, and for 11 years I had the privilege of working beside him as his Chief of Staff. I watched him pour his intellect, integrity, and energy into serving this community every single day. He devoted his life to lifting up disadvantaged community members and giving voice to those too often unheard. He was widely respected as one of Congress’s most effective lawmakers, a champion for federal workers and the postal service, and a principled statesman who defended democracy with courage and clarity on the international stage,” said Walkinshaw. “But Gerry was more than a Member of Congress. He was my mentor, my best friend, and one of the most formative figures in my life. His love for Fairfax continues to guide me in every decision I make. Introducing this bill with Senators Kaine and Warner is deeply meaningful because it honors a giant whose legacy is etched into every corner of our community. The best way to honor Gerry is to continue the work he loved and serve Fairfax with the same devotion he brought to it.” “From protecting federal workers and advocating for foreign aid to securing transformative transportation investments, Gerry Connolly was a one-of-a-kind public servant and fighter for Virginia’s 11th Congressional District,” said Kaine. “I’m proud to join my Virginia delegation colleagues to introduce this bipartisan legislation to honor my friend Gerry’s legacy.” “Whether he was fighting for federal employees, strengthening our transportation network, or standing up for democratic values at home and abroad, Gerry Connolly always led with integrity and purpose. Renaming this facility in his honor is a fitting tribute to a colleague and friend whose impact will be felt in Fairfax and across the Commonwealth for generations to come,” said Warner. In addition to Walkinshaw, Kaine, and Warner, the legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Representatives James Comer (R-KY-01), Rob Wittman (R-VA-01), Morgan McGarvey (D-KY-03), Bobby Scott (D-VA-03), Jennifer McClellan (D-VA-04), Don Beyer (D-VA-08), Brett Guthrie (R-KY-02), Mike Turner (R-OH-10), Suhas Subramanyam (D-VA-10), and Eugene Vindman (D-VA-07). The House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform unanimously passed the bill on December 2, 2025. Gerry Connolly served on the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors from 1995 to 2008, including five years as chairman. His leadership helped guide the county through a period of rapid growth and positioned it as a national model for smart planning, environmental stewardship, transit expansion, and affordable housing policy. He championed initiatives that were ahead of their time in addressing housing shortages, expanding the tree canopy, preserving open space, and advancing Washington Metro’s Silver Line. His local government experience informed a distinguished career in Congress, where he rose to become the Ranking Member and top Democrat on the Oversight Committee. He was widely regarded as one of the most experienced Members on oversight, and a respected advocate for good governance, infrastructure, and the federal workforce. The nonpartisan Center for Effective Lawmaking recognized him as the most effective Democratic lawmaker in the U.S. House during the 117th Congress. Connolly was also a statesman whose leadership extended well beyond the United States. As a two-time President of the NATO Parliamentary Assembly, he was a fierce defender of transatlantic unity and democratic values. He presided over the Assembly’s response to Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, advocated for the establishment of a Centre for Democratic Resilience at NATO Headquarters, and supported the accession of Sweden and Finland to the Alliance. His international work, combined with decades of service in Congress and in Fairfax County, reflects a legendary career defined by integrity, vision, and a steadfast commitment to democracy at home and abroad. Read the bill text here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=8A41728B-0A01-42B6-A539-61366B317B0C,"Following IG Report, Warner Renews Call for Hegseth to Resign or be Fired",2025-12-03,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,VA,Mark R. Warner,W000805,www.warner.senate.gov,warner,https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Senate Intelligence Committee Vice Chairman Mark R. Warner (D-VA) issued a statement after an investigation by the Department of Defense’s (DoD) independent watchdog found that Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth violated DoD policy and endangered the lives of Virginia-based pilots by sharing classified information over an unsecure personal group chat: “An objective, evidence-based investigation by the Pentagon’s internal watchdog leaves no doubt: Secretary Hegseth endangered the lives of American pilots based aboard the USS Harry S. Truman as they prepared to launch a mission against terrorist targets. By sharing classified operational details on an unsecure group chat on his personal phone, he created unacceptable risks to their safety and to our operational security. “The report also notes that the IG is aware of several other Signal chats Hegseth used for official business, underscoring that this was not an isolated lapse. It reflects a broader pattern of recklessness and poor judgment from a secretary who has repeatedly shown he is in over his head. “Our servicemembers, including those stationed in Virginia and around the world, expect and deserve leaders who honor the sacrifices they make every day to protect our nation and never put them at unnecessary risk. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: Pete Hegseth should resign, or the president must remove him at once.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=AAB0EFC1-AF6D-40CF-9EC1-A91727EC67AE,"Warner, Kaine, Walkinshaw Introduce Bill to Rename Fairfax Post Office in Honor of the late Gerry Connolly",2025-12-03,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,VA,Mark R. Warner,W000805,www.warner.senate.gov,warner,https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases,scraper,"WASHINGTON - U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) and U.S. Rep. James R. Walkinshaw (D-VA-11) introduced bicameral legislation to rename a United States Postal Service facility in Fairfax, Virginia in honor of the late Congressman Gerald E. “Gerry” Connolly, whose decades of service and leadership transformed Northern Virginia and inspired a generation of public servants. The bill designates the USPS facility located at 10660 Page Avenue, Fairfax, VA 22030 as the “Congressman Gerald E. ‘Gerry’ Connolly Post Office Building."" “Whether he was fighting for federal employees, strengthening our transportation network, or standing up for democratic values at home and abroad, Gerry Connolly always led with integrity and purpose. Renaming this facility in his honor is a fitting tribute to a colleague and friend whose impact will be felt in Fairfax and across the Commonwealth for generations to come,” said Sen. Warner. “From protecting federal workers and advocating for foreign aid to securing transformative transportation investments, Gerry Connolly was a one-of-a-kind public servant and fighter for Virginia’s 11th Congressional District,” said Sen. Kaine. “I’m proud to join my Virginia delegation colleagues to introduce this bipartisan legislation to honor my friend Gerry’s legacy.” “Gerry Connolly was a singular force for good in Fairfax, and for 11 years I had the privilege of working beside him as his Chief of Staff. I watched him pour his intellect, integrity, and energy into serving this community every single day. He devoted his life to lifting up disadvantaged community members and giving voice to those too often unheard. He was widely respected as one of Congress’s most effective lawmakers, a champion for federal workers and the postal service, and a principled statesman who defended democracy with courage and clarity on the international stage,” said Rep. Walkinshaw. “But Gerry was more than a Member of Congress. He was my mentor, my best friend, and one of the most formative figures in my life. His love for Fairfax continues to guide me in every decision I make. Introducing this bill with Senators Kaine and Warner is deeply meaningful because it honors a giant whose legacy is etched into every corner of our community. The best way to honor Gerry is to continue the work he loved and serve Fairfax with the same devotion he brought to it,” added Rep. Walkinshaw. Sens. Warner and Kaine and Rep. Walkinshaw were joined by a bipartisan group of original cosponsors: Chairman James Comer (R-KY-01), Rep. Rob Wittman (R-VA-01), Rep. Morgan McGarvey (D-KY-03), Rep. Bobby Scott (D-VA-03), Rep. Jennifer McClellan (D-VA-04), Rep. Don Beyer (D-VA-08), Rep. Brett Guthrie (R-KY-02), Rep. Mike Turner (R-OH-10), Rep. Suhas Subramanyam (D-VA-10), and Rep. Eugene Vindman (D-VA-07). The House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform unanimously passed the bill on December 2, 2025. Congressman Gerry Connolly’s Public Service: Gerry Connolly served on the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors from 1995 to 2008, including five years as chairman. His leadership helped guide the county through a period of rapid growth and positioned it as a national model for smart planning, environmental stewardship, transit expansion, and affordable housing policy. He championed initiatives that were ahead of their time in addressing housing shortages, expanding the tree canopy, preserving open space, and advancing Washington Metro’s Silver Line. His local government experience informed a distinguished career in Congress, where he rose to become the Ranking Member and top Democrat on the Oversight Committee. He was widely regarded as one of the most experienced Members on oversight, and a respected advocate for good governance, infrastructure, and the federal workforce. The nonpartisan Center for Effective Lawmaking recognized him as the most effective Democratic lawmaker in the U.S. House during the 117th Congress. Connolly was also a statesman whose leadership extended well beyond the United States. As a two-time President of the NATO Parliamentary Assembly, he was a fierce defender of transatlantic unity and democratic values. He presided over the Assembly’s response to Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, advocated for the establishment of a Centre for Democratic Resilience at NATO Headquarters, and supported the accession of Sweden and Finland to the Alliance. His international work, combined with decades of service in Congress and in Fairfax County, reflects a legendary career defined by integrity, vision, and a steadfast commitment to democracy at home and abroad.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-paul-schumer-and-schiff-announce-intent-to-file-war-powers-resolution-in-event-of-venezuela-strike,"Kaine, Paul, Schumer & Schiff Announce Intent to File War Powers Resolution in Event of Venezuela Strike",2025-12-02,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,VA,Tim Kaine,K000384,www.kaine.senate.gov,kaine,https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA) and Rand Paul (R-KY), Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer (D-NY), and U.S. Senator Adam Schiff (D-CA) released the following joint statement regarding the Trump Administration’s interest in striking Venezuela: “The Trump Administration seems increasingly intent on launching strikes within Venezuela without the congressional authorization the Constitution requires. Unauthorized military action against Venezuela would be a colossal and costly mistake that needlessly risks the lives of our servicemembers. We share the concerns of the American people who have made it abundantly clear that they don’t want more forever wars—especially ones decided in secret that will drive displacement and migration in our hemisphere. Should a strike occur, we will call up a War Powers Resolution to force a debate and vote in Congress that would block the use of U.S. forces in hostilities against or within Venezuela.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/video-kaine-speaks-on-senate-floor-denouncing-trumps-bizarre-pardon-of-drug-kingpin-juan-orlando-hernandez-and-illegal-strikes-in-caribbean,Video: Kaine Speaks on Senate Floor Denouncing Trump’s Bizarre Pardon of Drug Kingpin Juan Orlando Hernández and Illegal Strikes in Caribbean,2025-12-02,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,VA,Tim Kaine,K000384,www.kaine.senate.gov,kaine,https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news,scraper,"FULL VIDEO IS AVAILABLE HERE. WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee (SFRC) and Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on the Western Hemisphere, spoke on the Senate floor to denounce President Donald Trump’s pardon of drug kingpin and former Honduran President Juan Orlando Hernández. Hernández was tried and convicted by a jury in a U.S. court in 2024 for conspiring to traffic more than 400 tons of cocaine into the U.S. and weapons charges and sentenced to 45 years in prison. According to the evidence presented during his trial, from approximately 2004 to 2022, Hernández was at the center of one of the largest and most violent drug-trafficking conspiracies in the world and said he wanted to “shove the drugs right up the noses of the gringos” by flooding the U.S. with cocaine. “Juan Orlando Hernández is a former President of Honduras, a country I lived in when I worked with Jesuit missionaries in 1980 and ‘81,” said Kaine. “In a landmark criminal prosecution, he was convicted by a jury in an American federal court of a massive conspiracy to traffic more than 400 tons of cocaine into the United States while he was president of this very poor country.” Kaine continued, “Trial testimony included a witness who quoted Hernández saying he wanted to ‘shove drugs right up the noses of the gringos, and they’re never even going to know it.’” “Last Friday—the day after Thanksgiving—President Trump announced that he would pardon this notorious narco-trafficking kingpin after one year of serving his 45-year sentence in a federal penitentiary,” said Kaine. “The unconscionable Hernández pardon followed another Trump pardon of another notorious narco-trafficker. On January 21, 2025—the day after President Trump’s inauguration—he pardoned Ross Ulbricht.” “President Trump is claiming to be taking action to stop the flow of narcotics into the United States. Yet these two outrageous pardons show that he is willing to excuse and free the most notorious narco-traffickers in the world,” said Kaine. “It’s hard to see any reason for these pardons except that Hernández and Ulbricht are mega-rich,” said Kaine. “I can’t say for sure what’s going on here, but the pardon of Hernández is so bizarre, so counter to the President’s stated priorities, that it’s difficult for me to fathom any reason why this would happen other than someone in the Administration was benefiting from it.” Kaine then discussed the ongoing strikes in the Caribbean and Pacific, recent reporting regarding Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth’s order to leave no survivors and a second strike on September 2, and President Trump’s comments today that the U.S. would be moving to land operations soon. Kaine continued, “We shouldn’t allow our current President—a man perfectly comfortable pardoning a convicted criminal who boasted about ‘shoving drugs up the gringos’ noses’—to make such a decision on his own.” “It’s time for Congress to reassert the role that was handed to us in a sacred way in the Constitution in 1787 and exercise oversight over this mushrooming military operation in the Americas,” concluded Kaine. Earlier this year, Kaine railed against President Trump’s decision to pardon Ross Ulbricht, who was serving life in prison after founding the world’s largest online drug marketplace. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=9CF02C8C-45E6-467B-8014-450D4D3E9BE9,Sens. Warner & Whitehouse Urge DEA to Extend Current Flexibilities for Telehealth Prescriptions,2025-12-02,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,VA,Mark R. Warner,W000805,www.warner.senate.gov,warner,https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), both members of the Senate Finance Committee, sent a letter to Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Administrator Terry Cole urging the DEA to extend telemedicine flexibilities for prescribing controlled substances. The current flexibilities, which have been critical in connecting individuals in rural and underserved communities with access to essential medications, are set to expire December 31, 2025. “We write to urge the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to act quickly and extend critical flexibilities for telemedicine prescribing of controlled substances that were first put in place during the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency,” wrote the senators. “These policies ensure individuals can successfully access medical treatment via telehealth, and for many—including those with substance use disorder—these flexibilities have been life-saving.” The senators continued, “Telemedicine has been instrumental in expanding access to health care, supporting those with the greatest need and bridging the divide between patients and providers, especially for individuals in rural and under-resourced areas. The flexibility afforded by telemedicine has been particularly important in providing access to essential medications, including those for mental health conditions, substance use disorders, and chronic illnesses.” The senators highlighted that without continued telemedicine flexibilities, millions of Americans could lose access to essential health services, including mental and behavioral health care. “Americans face barriers to accessing mental health and substance use disorder treatment services, particularly in rural and under-resourced communities. As of August 2024, more than one third of the U.S. population, or 122 million individuals, live in a Mental Health Professional Shortage Area, as determined by an insufficient psychiatrist-to-population ratio. Rural areas face additional provider shortages, with many lacking access to psychologists, clinical social workers, and other types of providers. These challenges underscore the importance of maintaining flexibilities that increase access to treatment and services. Telemedicine flexibilities have ensured that patients receive timely and necessary care, at a time and location that is convenient for them,” added the senators. These telemedicine flexibilities were made possible by the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency, which allowed for an exception to the in-person medical evaluation requirement under the Ryan Haight Online Pharmacy Consumer Protection Act, legislation regulating the online prescription of controlled substances. The DEA has previously recognized the life-saving success of telemedicine flexibilities for prescribing controlled substances and since January 2020, has extended these temporary flexibilities three times. Sen. Warner has been a longtime advocate for increased access to telehealth services, emphasizing that consistent, uninterrupted access to providers is fundamental to managing chronic conditions, supporting mental health, preventing small health issues from becoming crises, and modernizing our health system. He is an original co-author of the CONNECT for Health Act, which seeks to expand the coverage of telehealth services through Medicare, make COVID-19 telehealth flexibilities permanent, and make it easier for patients to safely connect with their doctors. He also previously wrote to both the Biden and Trump administrations urging the DEA to finalize regulations that allow doctors to prescribe controlled substances through telehealth. At the height of the COVID-19 crisis, Sen. Warner sent a letter to Senate leadership calling for the permanent expansion of access to telehealth services. In September 2023, Sen. Warner led bipartisan partners to share serious concerns about an earlier version of DEA’s proposed rule, which would also have seriously curtailed access to prescriptions through telemedicine. In October 2025, Sens. Warner and Whitehouse reintroduced the bipartisan Telehealth Response for E-prescribing Addiction Therapy Services (TREATS) Act, which addresses regulatory hurdles to accessing telehealth services. In 2018, Sen. Warner included a provision to expand financial coverage for virtual substance use treatment in the Opioid Crisis Response Act of 2018. In 2003, then-Gov. Warner expanded Medicaid coverage for telemedicine statewide, including evaluation and management visits, a range of individual psychotherapies, the full range of consultations, and some clinical services, including in cardiology and obstetrics. Coverage was also expanded to include non-physician providers. Among other benefits, the telehealth expansion allowed individuals in medically underserved and remote areas of Virginia to access quality specialty care that isn’t always available at home. The full letter is available here. ### * High-quality photographs of Sen. Mark R. Warner are available for download here *",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=C36817D4-EF9D-4DF2-BEB0-51C073DE0683,"Warner, Risch Celebrate World Nuclear Energy Day",2025-12-02,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,VA,Mark R. Warner,W000805,www.warner.senate.gov,warner,https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases,scraper,"WASHINGTON - U.S. Sens. Mark Warner (D-VA) and Jim Risch (R-ID), co-chairs of the Senate Advanced Nuclear Caucus, today introduced a resolution to designate December 2, 2025, as World Nuclear Energy Day. The resolution celebrates the development of nuclear energy technologies and underscores the vital role of nuclear power in strengthening the U.S. economy and supporting a reliable energy grid worldwide. “The U.S. is a long-time leader in the nuclear energy sector, and it’s vital that we continue driving progress and innovation in order to meet our energy demands at home and abroad,” said Sen. Warner. “I’m thrilled to be celebrating World Nuclear Energy Day and all the folks who play a role in the U.S.’s nuclear energy advancements with my co-chair Senator Risch.” “Nuclear energy is America’s creation and will be essential to powering our nation’s future,” said Sen. Risch. “I’m proud to celebrate World Nuclear Energy Day with Senator Warner and recognize the incredible advancements the United States, and particularly the Idaho National Lab, have made to maintain our global leadership in nuclear energy.” Sens. Warner and Risch are joined by U.S. Sens. Mike Crapo (R-ID), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Bill Cassidy (R-LA), Chris Coons (D-DE), John Curtis (R-UT), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Bill Hagerty (R-TN), John Husted (R-OH), Jim Justice (R-WV), Angus King (I-ME), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Roger Marshall (R-KS), Thom Tillis (R-NC), and Todd Young (R-IN). December 2nd marks two significant milestones in the advancement of nuclear energy: December 2, 1942 – the world’s first self-sustaining, controlled nuclear chain reaction was demonstrated. December 2, 1957 – the world’s first commercial nuclear power plant began operations in the United States. The Senate Advanced Nuclear Caucus amplifies the critical role nuclear energy plays in the United States, explores emerging nuclear technologies, and promotes the goals and priorities of the U.S. nuclear industry. “NEI joins Senators Risch and Warner in recognizing World Nuclear Energy Day. The commercial nuclear energy industry is proud of the role we will play in meeting the growing global demand for clean and reliable energy. The U.S. is home to the world’s largest fleet of nuclear reactors and is the incubator of next generation technology. We applaud the bipartisan support in Congress and its work to advance policies that will allow the U.S. to continue to be recognized as the world leader in nuclear technology and the solutions we provide to countries around the globe,” said Maria Korsnick, president and CEO of the Nuclear Energy Institute. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=1E40CA35-C0C9-44D5-B7FC-608E6A5D6E1B,Statement of U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner on Successful Efforts to Ensure Greater Continuity of Care for Seniors on Medicare Advantage,2025-12-01,2025,2025-12,Democrat,Senate,VA,Mark R. Warner,W000805,www.warner.senate.gov,warner,https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA), a member of the Senate Finance Committee, today issued the following statement after successfully pushing the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to provide more options to Medicare Advantage seniors who lose network access to their doctors in the middle of the year: “Navigating the health care landscape is hard enough as is – we shouldn’t be forcing seniors to jump through hoops in order to continue seeing the doctors they know and trust. I’m glad to see CMS heed our call by proposing new measures that would allow Medicare Advantage enrollees to change their coverage more easily when they experience mid-year provider network changes. I’ll keep working with CMS to get this proposed rule finalized and ensure that elderly Americans can count on the continuity of care they need.” CMS currently has the ability to allow affected Medicare Advantage enrollees to switch plans as part of a “special enrollment period” when a significant number of doctors or hospitals no longer accept their insurance in the middle of the year. However, the circumstances for how these special enrollment periods are determined are currently opaque, and there is minimal notice to the public, states, and enrollees. In November, Sen. Warner joined Sen. Ron Wyden (D-OR) in calling on CMS to clarify how these special enrollment periods are determined and provide seniors enrolled in Medicare Advantage with more information about plan changes. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:09:11Z https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-statement-on-trumps-pardoning-of-former-honduran-president-who-brought-over-400-tons-of-cocaine-into-the-united-states,Kaine Statement on Trump's Pardoning of Former Honduran President who Brought Over 400 Tons of Cocaine into the United States,2025-11-29,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,VA,Tim Kaine,K000384,www.kaine.senate.gov,kaine,https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA), who lived in Honduras in 1980 and 1981 and serves as Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on the Western Hemisphere, released the following statement regarding President Donald Trump’s decision to pardon drug kingpin and former Honduran President Juan Orlando Hernández, who was convicted in the U.S. in 2024 for conspiring to traffic more than 400 tons of cocaine and weapons charges and sentenced to 45 years in prison: “Since September, President Trump has struck over 20 boats in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific Ocean in a supposed effort to crack down on drug trafficking—ordering the illegal execution of unknown people without evidence or trials and forfeiting the ability to gather valuable intelligence. But he finds it perfectly acceptable to excuse rich guys like Russ Ulbricht, who was sentenced to life in prison after founding the world’s largest online drug marketplace, and now Juan Orlando Hernández, who allegedly said he wanted to ‘shove the drugs right up the noses of the gringos by flooding the United States with cocaine’ and was sentenced to 45 years after bringing 400 tons of it into America. It’s the same old story from this Administration: no plans to actually make our communities safer or more prosperous, only ridiculous—and likely corrupt—schemes to reward wealthy criminals. This is a disgusting and incomprehensible decision by Trump, and Americans whose lives have been destroyed by narcotraffickers like Ulbricht and Hernández deserve better.” According to the U.S. Department of Justice, court documents illustrated that from at least in or about 2004, up to and including in or about 2022, Hernández was at the center of one of the largest and most violent drug-trafficking conspiracies in the world. During his political career, Hernández abused his powerful positions and authority in Honduras to facilitate the importation of over 400 tons of cocaine into the U.S. Hernández’s co-conspirators were armed with machine guns and destructive devices, including AK-47s, AR-15s, and grenade launchers, which they used to protect their massive cocaine loads as they transited across Honduras on their way to the U.S., protect the money they made from the eventual sale of this cocaine, and guard their drug-trafficking territory from rivals. In 2017, Trump recognized Hernández as the winner of a presidential election in Honduras despite widespread allegations of fraud. Hernández was losing the election until election authorities stopped releasing results and ultimately declared that he won another term. Honduras is due to hold presidential elections on November 30; international observers have raised concerns regarding the potential integrity of the elections after the country’s March 9 primaries were fraught with irregularities. The day after Trump was inaugurated in 2025, he pardoned Ulbricht, who was serving life in prison for convictions relating to distributing narcotics and conspiring to launder money tied to his website, Silk Road. Kaine railed against the decision. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-colleagues-urge-trump-administration-to-help-address-humanitarian-crisis-and-rebuild-medical-infrastructure-in-gaza,"Kaine, Colleagues Urge Trump Administration to Help Address Humanitarian Crisis and Rebuild Medical Infrastructure in Gaza",2025-11-25,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,VA,Tim Kaine,K000384,www.kaine.senate.gov,kaine,https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, joined a bicameral group of Democratic lawmakers in writing to U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, urging that the United States work with both Israeli authorities and international partners to push toward rebuilding accessible hospitals and medical infrastructure in Gaza. After two years of brutal conflict, Gaza’s medical infrastructure lies in ruins, leaving millions unable to seek even basic care and thousands suffering from life-threatening injuries. “Gaza’s health system is in dire straits, leaving civilians without access to the most basic medical care. It is crucial that accessible hospitals and medical infrastructure be rebuilt, and that medical aid and healthcare professionals be allowed to enter Gaza without delay,” the lawmakers wrote. “According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 94 percent of Gaza’s hospitals have been damaged or destroyed, and those that remain are overwhelmed. With more than half of all essential drugs and two-thirds of medical disposables completely depleted, Gaza’s few functioning hospitals are unable to perform basic surgeries, treat chronic diseases, or care for malnourished children. The WHO estimates that more than 15,600 patients, including 3,800 children, require urgent medical evacuation to receive life-saving care; and at least 700 people have already died while awaiting transfer.” “Ensuring that children and families devastated by this war have access to medical treatment is indispensable to rebuilding trust and hope. The next generation cannot build peace without healing from the physical and emotional scars of this conflict,” the lawmakers continued. “By pressing for the release of Gaza’s detained medical workers, rebuilding accessible hospitals and medical infrastructure, and reopening pathways to the East Jerusalem Hospital Network, the United States can help alleviate immense suffering, advance regional stability, and reaffirm our nation’s role as a credible partner for peace.” The lawmakers request answers to the following questions by December 1, 2025: What steps is the State Department taking to facilitate medical evacuations for critically ill and injured Palestinians? What actions has the State Department taken to secure unimpeded humanitarian access to Gaza to deliver desperately needed medical supplies, food, and water? What actions will the State Department pursue to secure the release of detained health workers held without charge? How will the State Department facilitate the reopening of the medical corridor between Gaza and the East Jerusalem Hospital Network and other facilities with the assurance that patients be allowed to return to Gaza when able? How will the State Department assist in rebuilding accessible hospitals and medical infrastructure in Gaza? The letter was led by U.S. Senator Ed Markey (D-MA) and U.S. Representative Maxine Dexter (D-OR-03). In addition to Kaine, a group of more than 100 Democratic lawmakers from both chambers of Congress signed the letter. Full text of the letter is available here and below. Dear Secretary Rubio: Gaza’s medical infrastructure remains devastated after two years of conflict, leaving tens of thousands of critically ill and injured people without access to lifesaving treatment. As Israel’s closest ally, the United States is uniquely positioned to help reestablish access to vital medical services. Addressing the dire medical situation gripping Gaza is not only the right thing to do but essential in any effort to stabilize the region and ensure a path towards peace. We urge the State Department to work with Israeli authorities and international partners to rebuild accessible hospitals and medical infrastructure in Gaza, reopen safe and reliable medical corridors— particularly those connecting to the East Jerusalem Hospital Network (EJHN)—and press for the release of Palestinian medical workers detained without charge, whose absence has further crippled Gaza’s ability to provide care. Gaza’s health system is in dire straits, leaving civilians without access to the most basic medical care. It is crucial that accessible hospitals and medical infrastructure be rebuilt, and that medical aid and healthcare professionals be allowed to enter Gaza without delay. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 94 percent of Gaza’s hospitals have been damaged or destroyed, and those that remain are overwhelmed. With more than half of all essential drugs and two-thirds of medical disposables completely depleted, Gaza’s few functioning hospitals are unable to perform basic surgeries, treat chronic diseases, or care for malnourished children. The WHO estimates that more than 15,600 patients, including 3,800 children, require urgent medical evacuation to receive life-saving care; and at least 700 people have already died while awaiting transfer. The need for medical evacuations is only rising, far outpacing any relief effort. At the same time, more than half a million people in Gaza are enduring famine, while over 1.5 million face severe food insecurity, placing additional pressure on the Gazan medical sector. The conditions on the ground paint a clear picture: Gaza’s health care system lies in ruins. There is a humanitarian emergency. The United States must act decisively to help restore access to medical care and prevent further loss of life. Rebuilding accessible hospitals and medical infrastructure in Gaza, in addition to reestablishing the medical corridor to the East Jerusalem Hospital Network, is essential to saving lives and restoring regional stability. The EJHN is a group of six hospitals that has the doctors, facilities, and capacity to provide advanced care to those in need of immediate medical attention. It is uniquely equipped to treat Gaza’s most critical cases. Before October 2023, Palestinians from Gaza regularly received care in these hospitals through an established referral system. Restoring this access would be the most efficient way to relieve Gaza’s failing health system, reduce civilian suffering, and reinforce long-standing U.S. humanitarian commitments. The EJHN has long received bipartisan-supported U.S. investment through congressional foreign aid appropriations. Between 2014 and 2024, the United States provided $202 million to the EJHN, all of which was delivered in compliance with oversight, vetting, and anti-terrorism requirements. A renewed humanitarian medical corridor, facilitated through the WHO’s established patient referral mechanisms and coordinated with Israel and regional partners, would save lives and demonstrate America’s commitment to humanitarian assistance. We are also deeply alarmed by the continued detention of Palestinian medical workers by Israeli forces, which has further weakened Gaza’s ability to deliver life-saving care. According to reports, at least 115 doctors, nurses, and paramedics remain in Israeli custody, along with the remains of four other health professionals who died while being held. These individuals are being incarcerated under “administrative detention,” a practice that allows them to be imprisoned indefinitely without charge, trial, or access to evidence, in violation of basic due process and international humanitarian norms. Detaining medical personnel not only contravenes the principle of medical neutrality, which protects healthcare workers in conflict zones, but also deprives Gaza’s civilians of desperately needed medical care. We urge you to press the Israeli government to immediately release all medical professionals being held under administrative detention and reaffirm that the protection of doctors and nurses is a fundamental obligation under international law. Alleviating Gaza’s health crisis is not only a moral imperative; it is essential to the success of the administration’s 20-Point Peace Plan. Restoring access to care through a medical evacuation corridor and facilitating the release of detained Palestinian medical personnel will save lives, help contain the spread of disease, and strengthen the foundation for a durable ceasefire. These steps are critical to achieving the plan’s vision for long-term stability and coexistence. Ensuring that children and families devastated by this war have access to medical treatment is indispensable to rebuilding trust and hope. The next generation cannot build peace without healing from the physical and emotional scars of this conflict. By pressing for the release of Gaza’s detained medical workers, rebuilding accessible hospitals and medical infrastructure, and reopening pathways to the East Jerusalem Hospital Network, the United States can help alleviate immense suffering, advance regional stability, and reaffirm our nation’s role as a credible partner for peace. Given our concerns about Gaza’s medical infrastructure and detained Palestinian medical workers, please respond to the following questions in writing by December 1, 2025: What steps is the State Department taking to facilitate medical evacuations for critically ill and injured Palestinians? What actions has the State Department taken to secure unimpeded humanitarian access to Gaza to deliver desperately needed medical supplies, food, and water? What actions will the State Department pursue to secure the release of detained health workers held without charge? How will the State Department facilitate the reopening of the medical corridor between Gaza and the East Jerusalem Hospital Network and other facilities with the assurance that patients be allowed to return to Gaza when able? How will the State Department assist in rebuilding accessible hospitals and medical infrastructure in Gaza? We appreciate your attention to this urgent issue and stand ready to support efforts that reflect our country’s commitment to humanitarian values. Sincerely, ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/warner-kaine-announce-45-million-to-expand-mental-health-resources-for-virginia-veterans,"Warner, Kaine Announce $4.5 Million to Expand Mental Health Resources for Virginia Veterans",2025-11-25,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,VA,Tim Kaine,K000384,www.kaine.senate.gov,kaine,https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) announced $4.5 million in federal grants to support suicide prevention efforts for veterans. This funding is made possible by the Staff Sergeant Parker Gordon Fox Suicide Prevention Grant Program, which was created via bipartisan legislation that Warner wrote and Kaine helped pass into law to support community-based initiatives that connect veterans and their families to outreach programs, prevention services, and resources through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and local communities. “Too many veterans silently suffer with their mental health when their tours of duty conclude. It is our responsibility as lawmakers to make sure that those who have served and sacrificed for our country have the support and resources they deserve,” said Warner. “I’m proud to have helped advance the legislation that makes this funding possible, and I’m glad that Virginia’s veterans will receive more support as we continue to tackle the alarming rate of veteran suicide.” “Our nation makes a sacred promise to the men and women who serve: that when they come home, they’ll have the support and opportunities they need and deserve,” said Kaine. “I’m proud to have helped pass this legislation to fund crucial community-based veteran suicide prevention efforts across the Commonwealth.” The Staff Sergeant Parker Gordon Fox Suicide Prevention Grant Program was created through the IMPROVE Wellbeing for Veterans Act, legislation led by Warner in 2019 to improve the coordination of veteran mental health and suicide prevention services and to better measure the effectiveness of these programs. The legislation was signed into law as part of the broader Commander John Scott Hannon Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act, which was passed unanimously in the Senate in August 2020. In February 2025, Warner introduced bipartisan legislation to renew and expand the Staff Sergeant Parker Gordon Fox Suicide Prevention Grant Program. In June 2025, Warner testified before the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs to advocate for this program’s extension. The grants will be distributed as follows: Western Tidewater Community Services Board will receive $613,911 to serve the cities of Chesapeake, Franklin, Hampton, Newport News, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Suffolk, Virginia Beach, and Williamsburg, as well as Accomack, Essex, Isle of Wight, King and Queen, Matthews, Middlesex, Northampton, Sussex, Southampton, and Washington counties. Volunteers of America Chesapeake will receive $750,000 to serve the cities of Alexandria, Bristol, Chesapeake, Falls Church, Fredericksburg, Hampton, Harrisonburg, Newport News, Norfolk, Norton, Staunton, Virginia Beach, Waynesboro, and Winchester, as well as Arlington, Augusta, Chesterfield, Culpeper, Cumberland, Fairfax, Fauquier, King and Queen, King George, Loudoun, Prince William, Rockingham, Shenandoah, Spotsylvania, and Stafford counties. Boulder Crest Foundation will receive $725,000 to serve Clarke, Frederick, and Loudoun counties. Blue Star Families will receive $750,000 to serve the city of Norfolk. EveryMind will receive $750,000 to serve the cities of Alexandria, Falls Church, Fairfax, Manassas, and Manassas Park, as well as Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun, and Prince William counties. United States Veterans Initiative will receive $400,000 to serve Clarke, Culpeper, Fairfax, Fauquier, Frederick, Loudoun, Prince William, Rappahannock, Spotsylvania, Stafford, and Warren counties. Westcare Kentucky will receive $512,053 to serve Buchanan, Dickenson, and Wise counties. Warner and Kaine have long been strong advocates for improving mental health care for Virginia’s veterans. In addition to his legislative efforts, Warner has repeatedly met with senior leadership at the Richmond VA Medical Center and Hampton VA Medical Center to discuss suicide prevention and other issues affecting the local veteran community. Kaine has led legislation to protect veterans from housing discrimination and address homelessness and cosponsored legislation to improve veteran transition programs aimed at reducing veteran suicide. He has also been outspoken against the Trump Administration’s cuts at the VA and the mass layoffs of federal employees, which disproportionately affect veterans. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=81B59B28-264E-4196-A0CE-D7473F5BE6F5,"Ranking Members Warner, Coons, Murray, Reed, Schatz, Warren Statement on President Trump’s Ultimatum to Ukraine",2025-11-25,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,VA,Mark R. Warner,W000805,www.warner.senate.gov,warner,https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases,scraper,"U.S. Sens. Mark Warner (D-VA), Senate Intelligence Committee Vice Chairman, Chris Coons (D-DE), Ranking Member on the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, Patty Murray (D-WA), Senate Appropriations Committee Vice Chair, Jack Reed (D-RI), Ranking Member on the Senate Armed Services Committee, Brian Schatz (D-HI), Ranking Member on the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on State and Foreign Operations (SFOPS), and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Ranking Member of the Senate Banking Committee, issued the following statement in response to a reported deal the Trump administration proposed to end Russia’s invasion of Ukraine that would require heavy Ukrainian concessions: “The United States is safer and stronger when democracies like Ukraine are free, stable, and strong enough to deter our adversaries. The deal President Trump is forcing on Ukraine calls on Ukraine and NATO allies to make major concessions or risk losing American support. It goes so far as to hand Russia substantial territory it has not been able to take on the battlefield thanks to the bravery of the Ukrainian forces. This deal will not create a just and lasting peace. It will leave Ukraine vulnerable, Europe unstable, and America weaker. It will not end the war in Eastern Europe. It will only give Russia time to rebuild and rearm before coming back for the rest of Ukraine and then setting its sights on NATO allies. “President Trump needs to work with Republicans and Democrats in Congress alongside our partners in Ukraine and NATO allies to find a lasting solution that will make Americans and the world safer. “We support the cause of peace in Ukraine. Ukraine must emerge as a free, sovereign state with the ability to defend itself and deter Russia, and President Putin must learn that aggression does not pay. Ukraine should not be forced into accepting this dangerous proposal, and Congress must make unmistakably clear that we stand firmly against it. “Let us be clear: this is a war of Russian aggression, led by a dictator who has commanded his troops to commit war crimes, steal children from their families, and torture civilians. President Trump is rewarding President Putin for these crimes while cutting out the Ukrainians who have fought and died for the cause of democracy and our European allies who have stepped up to support them. “Americans would also have to live with the ramifications of a bad deal: allies and partners who see us as untrustworthy and are less willing to come to our aid when we call for help. A weakened nation on the world stage. Adversaries who know they can simply wait for us to cave. A government in Washington that continues to abandon the principles of separate but equal branches of government. “We will continue to stand with the people of Ukraine and for American safety and security.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=C4053340-CDEE-4A7C-894E-7794245A307D,"Warner, Kaine Announce $4.5 Million to Expand Mental Health Resources for Virginia Veterans",2025-11-25,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,VA,Mark R. Warner,W000805,www.warner.senate.gov,warner,https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) announced $4.5 million in federal grants to support suicide prevention efforts for veterans. This funding is made possible by the Staff Sergeant Parker Gordon Fox Suicide Prevention Grant Program, which was created via bipartisan legislation that Sen. Warner wrote and Sen. Kaine helped pass into law to support community-based initiatives that connect veterans and their families to outreach programs, prevention services, and resources through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and local communities. “Too many veterans silently suffer with their mental health when their tours of duty conclude. It is our responsibility as lawmakers to make sure that those who have served and sacrificed for our country have the support and resources they deserve,” said Sen. Warner. “I’m proud to have helped advance the legislation that makes this funding possible, and I’m glad that Virginia’s veterans will receive more support as we continue to tackle the alarming rate of veteran suicide.” “Our nation makes a sacred promise to the men and women who serve: that when they come home, they’ll have the support and opportunities they need and deserve,” said Sen. Kaine. “I’m proud to have helped pass this legislation to fund crucial community-based veteran suicide prevention efforts across the Commonwealth.” The Staff Sergeant Parker Gordon Fox Suicide Prevention Grant Program was created through the IMPROVE Wellbeing for Veterans Act, legislation led by Sen. Warner in 2019 to improve the coordination of veteran mental health and suicide prevention services and to better measure the effectiveness of these programs. The legislation was signed into law as part of the broader Commander John Scott Hannon Veterans Mental Health Care Improvement Act, which was passed unanimously in the Senate in August 2020. In February 2025, Sen. Warner introduced bipartisan legislation to renew and expand the Staff Sergeant Parker Gordon Fox Suicide Prevention Grant Program. In June 2025, Sen. Warner testified before the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs to advocate for this program’s extension. The grants will be distributed as follows: Western Tidewater Community Services Board will receive $613,911 to serve the cities of Chesapeake, Franklin, Hampton, Newport News, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Suffolk, Virginia Beach, and Williamsburg, as well as Accomack, Essex, Isle of Wight, King and Queen, Matthews, Middlesex, Northampton, Sussex, Southampton, and Washington counties. Volunteers of America Chesapeake will receive $750,000 to serve the cities of Alexandria, Bristol, Chesapeake, Falls Church, Fredericksburg, Hampton, Harrisonburg, Newport News, Norfolk, Norton, Staunton, Virginia Beach, Waynesboro, and Winchester, as well as Arlington, Augusta, Chesterfield, Culpeper, Cumberland, Fairfax, Fauquier, King and Queen, King George, Loudoun, Prince William, Rockingham, Shenandoah, Spotsylvania, and Stafford counties. Boulder Crest Foundation will receive $725,000 to serve Clarke, Frederick, and Loudoun counties. Blue Star Families will receive $750,000 to serve the city of Norfolk. EveryMind will receive $750,000 to serve the cities of Alexandria, Falls Church, Fairfax, Manassas, and Manassas Park, as well as Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun, and Prince William counties. United States Veterans Initiative will receive $400,000 to serve Clarke, Culpeper, Fairfax, Fauquier, Frederick, Loudoun, Prince William, Rappahannock, Spotsylvania, Stafford, and Warren counties. Westcare Kentucky will receive $512,053 to serve Buchanan, Dickenson, and Wise counties. Sens. Warner and Kaine have long been strong advocates for improving mental health care for Virginia’s veterans. In addition to his legislative efforts, Sen. Warner has repeatedly met with senior leadership at the Richmond VA Medical Center and Hampton VA Medical Center to discuss suicide prevention and other issues affecting the local veteran community. Sen. Kaine has led legislation to protect veterans from housing discrimination and address homelessness and cosponsored legislation to improve veteran transition programs aimed at reducing veteran suicide. He has also been outspoken against the Trump Administration’s cuts at the VA and the mass layoffs of federal employees, which disproportionately affect veterans. ### * High-quality photographs of Sen. Mark R. Warner are available for downloadhere*",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-colleagues-demand-trump-administration-declassify-and-release-doj-legal-memo-on-lethal-caribbean_pacific-strikes,"Kaine, Colleagues Demand Trump Administration Declassify & Release DOJ Legal Memo on Lethal Caribbean & Pacific Strikes",2025-11-24,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,VA,Tim Kaine,K000384,www.kaine.senate.gov,kaine,https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA), a member of the Senate Armed Services and Foreign Relations Committees, joined 12 Democratic colleagues in writing to Attorney General Pam Bondi and Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth requesting the declassification and public release of the Department of Justice (DOJ) Office of Legal Counsel (OLC) written opinion on the Trump Administration’s strikes in the Caribbean Sea and eastern Pacific Ocean, which have killed at least 83 unknown individuals across 21 known strikes. The Trump Administration has refused to release legal justification for the strikes, even following bipartisan requests from members of the Senate Armed Services Committee. “Few decisions are more consequential for a democracy than the use of lethal force. We therefore believe that the declassification and public release of this important document would enhance transparency in the use of deadly force by our nation’s military and is necessary to ensure Congress and the American people are fully informed of the legal justification supporting these strikes,” the senators wrote. The letter is led by U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Jack Reed (D-RI). In addition to Kaine, the letter is signed by U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), Angus King (I-ME), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Gary Peters (D-MI), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), and Elissa Slotkin (D-MI). Kaine has been a leading voice in Congress calling out the Trump Administration’s failure to provide thorough answers regarding the justification for and legality of the strikes. In September, shortly after the first strike, Kaine led 24 of his Senate colleagues in pressing the Trump Administration for answers to a series of questions, including the legal justification for the strikes, who was targeted, why the targets were destroyed rather than interdicted as a means of gathering additional intelligence to assist counternarcotics efforts, whether assessments had been made about potential responses to the strikes such as violent action in the United States, and more. Kaine has not received a response. In October, the Senate voted on a War Powers Resolution led by Kaine and U.S. Senator Adam Schiff (D-CA) that would have blocked the continued use of the U.S. Armed Forces in the southern Caribbean Sea without an Authorization for Use of Military Force (AUMF) by Congress. In November, the Senate voted on a separate War Powers Resolution led by Kaine, Schiff, and U.S. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) that would have blocked the use of the U.S. Armed Forces to engage in hostilities within or against Venezuela unless that action has been authorized by Congress. Neither resolution gained enough Republican support to pass. Kaine has also led his colleagues in demanding legal justification for the strikes. Full text of the letter is available here and below. Dear Attorney General Bondi and Secretary Hegseth: We are writing to request expeditious declassification and public release of the Department of Justice Office of Legal Counsel’s written opinion, dated September 5, 2025, concerning the domestic and international legal basis for recent military strikes of certain vessels near South America and the Caribbean, with appropriate redactions necessary to protect military personnel and sensitive intelligence matters. Significant and noteworthy precedent exists for the public release of OLC opinions related to overseas military action. After the United States carried out military strikes in Libya in 2011 and in Syria in 2018, the Department of Justice released the applicable OLC opinion justifying each operation. Few decisions are more consequential for a democracy than the use of lethal force. We therefore believe that the declassification and public release of this important document would enhance transparency in the use of deadly force by our Nation’s military and is necessary to ensure Congress and the American people are fully informed of the legal justification supporting these strikes. Sincerely, ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-statement-on-judges-order-disqualifying-trumps-unlawfully-appointed-interim-us-attorney-for-the-eastern-district-of-virginia,Kaine Statement on Judge’s Order Disqualifying Trump’s Unlawfully Appointed Interim U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia,2025-11-24,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,VA,Tim Kaine,K000384,www.kaine.senate.gov,kaine,https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA) released the following statement after a federal judge ruled that President Donald Trump unlawfully appointed Lindsey Halligan as the interim U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia (EDVA) since the position can only be carried out in an interim capacity without Senate or District Judges’ confirmation for 120 days. The 120-day clock began in January when Trump appointed Erik Siebert, who was forced out and replaced by Halligan after he refused to bring baseless criminal charges against Trump’s perceived enemies. As a result of the ruling, the cases brought by Halligan against New York Attorney General Letitia James and former FBI Director James Comey were dismissed. “President Trump forced a qualified U.S. Attorney in the Eastern District of Virginia to resign so he could appoint an unqualified replacement with no prosecutorial experience who isn’t even licensed to practice law in Virginia. Why? In order to compel the initiation of criminal cases against his perceived political enemies. Today his blatant persecution effort blew up in his face,” Kaine said. On January 21, 2025, the Trump Administration appointed Erik Siebert as the interim U.S. Attorney for the EDVA. In April, after an extensive interview process that included the input of a bipartisan panel of former Virginia U.S. Attorneys and other well-respected members of the Virginia legal community, Kaine and Senator Mark R. Warner sent a letter to the White House recommending Siebert for the U.S. Attorney position. In May, the White House announced that Siebert was formally nominated for the role. Siebert was serving in an interim capacity because he had not yet been confirmed by the U.S. Senate. On May 9, 2025, the District Judges of the Eastern District of Virginia unanimously voted for Seibert to continue as the interim U.S. Attorney. On September 22, 2025, Kaine slammed the Trump Administration’s politically motivated forcing out of Siebert. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/warner-kaine-and-democratic-colleagues-introduce-legislation-to-reverse-republican-snap-cuts-and-restore-food-security-for-millions-of-americans,"Warner, Kaine & Democratic Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Reverse Republican Snap Cuts and Restore Food Security for Millions of Americans",2025-11-21,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,VA,Tim Kaine,K000384,www.kaine.senate.gov,kaine,https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) joined every Senate Democrat in introducing the Restoring Food Security for American Families and Farmers Act of 2025. The legislation would repeal the devastating Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) cuts Republicans in Congress approved in July in order to fund tax breaks for the wealthiest Americans. Congress has long maintained a bipartisan commitment to ensure Americans have access to food, but the partisan tax and budget megabill Republicans wrote and approved over the summer included the largest SNAP cuts in history. To fund tax breaks for the wealthiest Americans, congressional Republicans approved cuts that the Congressional Budget Office estimates will reduce food assistance by $187 billion over the next ten years, even as grocery prices rise and tariffs increase costs for families. These Republican cuts will take meals from millions of Americans, including children, seniors, veterans, workers, and people with disabilities, while harming farmers, ranchers, small businesses, and grocers who rely on SNAP dollars. In addition, the Republican bill creates a massive unfunded mandate on state governments that could force deep cuts or even eliminate SNAP entirely. “It is unconscionable that congressional Republicans voted in July to fund tax breaks for the wealthiest Americans by cutting SNAP, taking assistance away from millions of seniors, veterans, and working families even as it gets harder and harder for them to afford groceries,” said the senators. “Our legislation will reverse these harmful cuts so that families aren’t forced to go hungry while food costs continue to climb because of President Trump’s reckless policies.” Earlier this week, nearly 1,500 national, state, and community-based organizations joined a letter voicing support for this effort. SNAP is a lifeline for over 42 million Americans, including 16 million children, 8 million seniors, 4 million people with disabilities, 1.2 million veterans, and 850,000 Virginians. In addition to Warner and Kaine, this legislation is sponsored by U.S. Senators Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Chris Coons (D-DE), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Dick Durbin (D-IL), John Fetterman (D-PA), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Angus King (I-ME), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Patty Murray (D-WA), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Gary Peters (D-MI), Jack Reed (D-RI), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Chuck Schumer (D-NY) Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Tina Smith (D-MN), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Rev. Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Peter Welch (D-VT), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Ron Wyden (D-OR). U.S. Representatives Jahana Hayes (D-CT-05) and Angie Craig (D-MN-02) introduced companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives. The full bill text of the legislation can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=E371F1AB-508E-4CED-9BB2-FF36DF043A32,"Warner, Kaine & Democratic Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Reverse Republican SNAP Cuts and Restore Food Security for Millions of Americans",2025-11-21,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,VA,Mark R. Warner,W000805,www.warner.senate.gov,warner,https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) joined every Senate Democrat in introducing the Restoring Food Security for American Families and Farmers Act of 2025. The legislation would repeal the devastating Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) cuts Republicans in Congress approved in July in order to fund tax breaks for the wealthiest Americans. Congress has long maintained a bipartisan commitment to ensure Americans have access to food, but the partisan tax and budget megabill Republicans wrote and approved over the summer included the largest SNAP cuts in history. To fund tax breaks for the wealthiest Americans, congressional Republicans approved cuts that the Congressional Budget Office estimates will reduce food assistance by $187 billion over the next ten years, even as grocery prices rise and tariffs increase costs for families. These Republican cuts will take meals from millions of Americans, including children, seniors, veterans, workers, and people with disabilities, while harming farmers, ranchers, small businesses, and grocers who rely on SNAP dollars. In addition, the Republican bill creates a massive unfunded mandate on state governments that could force deep cuts or even eliminate SNAP entirely. “It is unconscionable that congressional Republicans voted in July to fund tax breaks for the wealthiest Americans by cutting SNAP, taking assistance away from millions of seniors, veterans, and working families even as it gets harder and harder for them to afford groceries,” said the senators. “Our legislation will reverse these harmful cuts so that families aren’t forced to go hungry while food costs continue to climb because of President Trump’s reckless policies.” Earlier this week, nearly 1,500 national, state, and community-based organizations joined a letter voicing support for this effort. SNAP is a lifeline for over 42 million Americans, including 16 million children, 8 million seniors, 4 million people with disabilities, 1.2 million veterans, and 850,000 Virginians. In addition to Sens. Warner and Kaine, this legislation is sponsored by U.S. Sens. Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Chris Coons (D-DE), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Dick Durbin (D-IL), John Fetterman (D-PA), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Angus King (I-ME), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Patty Murray (D-WA), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Gary Peters (D-MI), Jack Reed (D-RI), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Chuck Schumer (D-NY) Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Tina Smith (D-MN), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Peter Welch (D-VT), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Ron Wyden (D-OR). U.S. Reps. Jahana Hayes (D-CT-05) and Angie Craig (D-MN-02) introduced companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives. The full bill text of the legislation can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=E38AD9A2-5DB8-4BF3-861C-2AAE97EBF5E5,"Sens. Warner, Collins, Cortez Masto, Capito Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Expand Access to Alzheimer’s Screening",2025-11-21,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,VA,Mark R. Warner,W000805,www.warner.senate.gov,warner,https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner (D-VA), Susan Collins (R-ME), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) introduced the bipartisan Alzheimer’s Screening and Prevention (ASAP) Act, a bill that would require the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to create a pathway to cover blood biomarker tests approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the early detection of Alzheimer’s disease. The FDA approved the first blood-based biomarker test for use by primary care physicians earlier this year, but physicians could be hesitant to use the tests if they are not reimbursed by CMS. U.S. Representative Vern Buchanan (R-FL-16) has introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives. “My mother battled Alzheimer’s for a decade before her passing, and I saw firsthand just how devastating this disease is,” said Sen. Warner, co-chair of the Congressional Task Force on Alzheimer’s Disease. “By expanding access to early detection testing, this legislation would help thousands of patients and families in Virginia be pro-active with their care and treatment of Alzheimer’s.” “Alzheimer’s is one of the greatest public health challenges of our time, affecting more than seven million Americans, including nearly 29,000 people in Maine. Early diagnosis is essential, yet too many patients continue to go undiagnosed until their symptoms become severe,” said Sen. Collins, co-chair of the Congressional Task Force on Alzheimer’s Disease. “Our bipartisan ASAP Act would require Medicare to cover FDA-approved blood tests for Alzheimer’s, expanding access to earlier testing, and giving patients and their families more time to plan, seek support, and pursue the best options for care for their loved ones.” “My grandmother lived with Alzheimer’s disease for many years, so I know the pain and distress this illness can cause to patients and loved ones alike,” said Sen. Cortez Masto. “The sooner this disease is detected, the sooner patients and their families can seek treatment and make plans for the future. I’ll never stop working across the aisle to ensure Nevada’s seniors have access to the health care they need.” “Alzheimer’s is a disease that has touched so many West Virginia families, including my own. While we are making breakthroughs in research and treatment, early screening and detection remain essential in improving outcomes and getting us closer to ending this devastating disease. That is why I am proud to help introduce the Alzheimer’s Screening and Prevention (ASAP) Act, legislation that ensures patients have access to the early testing they need,” said Sen. Capito. Specifically, the ASAP Act would: Create the authority for CMS to cover FDA-approved blood-based dementia screening tests; and Maintain CMS’ authority to use an evidence-based process to determine coverage parameters for these new tests. The ASAP Act has been endorsed by the Alzheimer’s Association. “New blood tests that can detect Alzheimer’s are coming soon. We need legislative action now so people living with the disease can access them without delay,” said Robert Egge, chief public policy officer of the Alzheimer’s Association and president of the Alzheimer’s Impact Movement. “The ASAP Act makes that possible, removing barriers and opening the door to earlier care and better outcomes. We're grateful for the longstanding bipartisan commitment of these congressional champions and their leadership on this landmark legislation. Together, we can make this bipartisan bill deliver for the Alzheimer’s community.” Sen. Warner has been a longtime leader of legislative efforts to advance Alzheimer’s research, prevention, treatment, and care. As co-chair of the Congressional Task Force on Alzheimer’s Disease, he has introduced and passed the bipartisan National Alzheimer’s Project Act (NAPA) and the Alzheimer’s Accountability and Investment Act, as well as urged President Trump for increased funding for Alzheimer’s research. The complete text of the legislation can be read here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-and-booker-lead-call-for-stronger-us-diplomacy-to-address-drc-rwanda-crisis,Kaine & Booker Lead Call for Stronger U.S. Diplomacy to Address DRC-Rwanda Crisis,2025-11-20,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,VA,Tim Kaine,K000384,www.kaine.senate.gov,kaine,https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA), Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations (SFRC) Subcommittee on the Western Hemisphere, Transnational Crime, Civilian Security, Democracy, Human Rights, & Global Women’s Issues, and U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), Ranking Member of the SFRC Subcommittee on Africa & Global Health Policy, led their colleagues in sending a letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio calling for stronger U.S. diplomacy to address the conflict between the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Rwanda. While President Donald Trump has touted the peace agreement between the DRC and Rwanda, which was signed on June 27, 2025 in the Oval Office, violence between the M23 rebel group and Congolese Army has continued, and humanitarian conditions have deteriorated. “On June 27, 2025, you participated in the signing of the ‘Washington Accord’ by senior officials from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Rwanda at the State Department, followed by a meeting with President Trump in which he called the moment ‘a glorious triumph for the cause of peace’ in the Oval Office,” wrote the senators. “Although the Trump Administration deserves credit for attempting to engage constructively on this crisis, we are concerned by severe flaws in the structure of the peace process.” “Following the June ceremony at the White House, fighting in eastern DRC resumed almost immediately. Although the lines of the conflict have remained more stable since June, the M23 has continued to seize territory, displacing civilians and entrenching control over swathes of North and South Kivu, while the Congolese army has backed abusive ‘Wazalendo’ proxy militias. As of mid-2025, M23 has reportedly recruited over 7,000 fighters and claim to have recruited many more since,” the senators continued. “These assessments highlight the continued challenge of implementing the Accord, the need for renewed and focused diplomatic attention, and the dissonance between the Administration’s declarations of triumph and the facts on the ground,” wrote the senators. The senators concluded, “U.S.-facilitated efforts to resolve conflicts across the globe require serious, level-headed leadership and thoughtful, consistent diplomacy to foster concrete and lasting commitments. We encourage the Administration to take stock of lessons learned from the Washington Accord process so far and focus upcoming efforts on fostering a sustainable peace between the warring parties that advances both U.S. interests and long-term regional stability.” In addition to Kaine and Booker, the letter is cosigned by U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Peter Welch (D-VT), and Jeff Merkley (D-OR). Full text of the letter is available here and below: Dear Secretary Rubio, On June 27, 2025, you participated in the signing of the “Washington Accord” by senior officials from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Rwanda at the State Department, followed by a meeting with President Trump in which he called the moment “a glorious triumph for the cause of peace” in the Oval Office. The Accord committed the parties to cease hostilities, respect territorial integrity, stand up a Regional Economic Integration Framework, and cease support of non-state armed groups. Under the Accord, DRC and Rwanda also committed to implementing a Concept of Operations (“ConOps”) under which the DRC is to “neutralize” the FDLR armed group, while Rwanda is to disengage its forces from DRC territory. Separately, the U.S. played a central role in the Doha peace process, which yielded a ceasefire declaration in July and a framework peace agreement between the DRC and the Rwanda-backed M23 rebel group on November 15. Although the Trump Administration deserves credit for attempting to engage constructively on this crisis, we are concerned by severe flaws in the structure of the peace process: The Accord neglects to recognize and address the root causes of the conflict, including poor governance, unresolved citizenship disputes, and entrenched ethnic grievances; Core security sequencing was softened from earlier drafts on Rwandan troop withdrawal timelines, prompting uncertainty; The agreement prioritized a U.S.-backed regional economic framework, and U.S. officials have further pledged a bilateral minerals investment deal with DRC, tying peace efforts to supply-chain reform and prospective investment – raising concerns that the economic components of the agreement could overshadow its peacebuilding aims. The Accord lacks accountability provisions for grave abuses – a missed opportunity to tackle the very impunity that has fueled the recurrence of this crisis. Though the elevation of the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) as a participant in the M23 ceasefire-monitoring arrangement is critical, this Administration has cut U.S. funding to United Nations peacekeeping efforts, directly reducing the capacity of missions like MONUSCO. Following the June ceremony at the White House, fighting in eastern DRC resumed almost immediately. Although the lines of the conflict have remained more stable since June, the M23 has continued to seize territory, displacing civilians and entrenching control over swathes of North and South Kivu, while the Congolese army has backed abusive “Wazalendo” proxy militias. As of mid-2025, M23 has reportedly recruited over 7,000 fighters and claim to have recruited many more since. On August 20th, Human Rights Watch and the UN human rights office reported that the M23 killed at least 140 people, and possibly over 300 civilians during counter-FDLR operations in Rutshuru in July 2025. On September 21st, the M23 reportedly captured the South Kivu town of Nzibira after clashes with DRC forces. On October 8th, the Red Cross detailed that after assessing 240 health centers and clinics in North and South Kivu, more than 80% of these health facilities faced medicine shortages. Furthermore, the M23 is strengthening its political and economic positioning with apparent ambitions to take Uvira, South Kivu’s second-largest urban center. On September 22, 2025, Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi conceded that the Accord has not calmed the conflict, accusing Rwanda of deepening its support for M23 rather than withdrawing. He also cautioned against the impression that U.S. mediation gives Washington a claim on Congo’s resources, stressing, “This does not mean that we will auction our mineral resources.” On September 24, 2025, the Administration’s Senior Advisor for Arab and African Affairs, Massad Boulos, acknowledged in New York that “the fight has not ended” and that agreement implementation had “not fully” begun, while UN Ambassador Mike Waltz warned, on September 30, 2025, that M23 and Rwandan forces were actively obstructing peacekeepers – despite Rwanda having committed under the June 27 agreement to “facilitate and support” MONUSCO’s ability to implement its mandate. Meanwhile, on the same day, the Special Representative of the Secretary-General in the DRC told the UN Security Council that peace remained “mostly a promise,” noting continued human rights abuses, including mass killings, forced military recruitment, summary executions, torture, abductions, and sexual violence by M23 and other armed groups. These assessments highlight the continued challenge of implementing the Accord, the need for renewed and focused diplomatic attention, and the dissonance between the Administration’s declarations of triumph and the facts on the ground. We are further concerned that the Administration’s June 3rd ill-considered deal with Rwanda – under which Kigali agreed to accept up to 250 third-country deportees from the United States, with U.S. funds provided up front to support implementation – may complicate the diplomatic environment. This new arrangement risks granting Rwanda additional leverage at a moment when Washington is attempting to serve as an impartial mediator between the parties. With deportee transfers already underway, it is unclear how this agreement aligns with broader U.S. engagement in the region, what safeguards govern the use of the funds provided, and whether the deal could inadvertently weaken U.S. efforts to secure accountability, humanitarian access, and compliance from all actors engaged in the conflict. Given these facts, we hope to receive better clarity on the Administration’s assessment of the current conditions of the conflict and next steps. Specifically, we ask: Will the Administration commit to renewed, sustained diplomacy with all relevant parties – including members of civil society, who have been excluded from the Washington and Doha process to date – to address root causes of the conflict and hold armed actors and their supporters accountable? How does the Administration assess the current security and humanitarian situation in eastern DRC, including whether M23 – with the support of Rwanda – has continued to hold or gain territory since the signing of the Washington Accord? What measures has the Department put in place to ensure that the U.S.–Rwanda deportee agreement does not weaken U.S. leverage in the peace process, and how are funds under this arrangement being monitored, restricted, and reported? Will the Administration continue to insist on minerals and commercial frameworks as a precondition to peace? What steps is the Administration taking to ensure that the Washington Accord signatories allow unfettered access for humanitarian and aid organizations? Will the United States support and fund peacekeeping efforts and humanitarian aid in eastern DRC? What measures will the Administration pursue to ensure that future U.S.-backed peace efforts are rooted in long-term diplomatic engagement rather than short-term arrangements? Given the Administration’s stated plans to hold a White House event to mark the Washington Accord, what conditions have been met by both signatory parties to warrant the Administration holding such an event? The initial momentum generated by the Washington Accord and the Doha framework agreement now warrants sustained follow-through and an inclusive process that addresses underlying drivers of instability in the region. U.S.-facilitated efforts to resolve conflicts across the globe require serious, level-headed leadership and thoughtful, consistent diplomacy to foster concrete and lasting commitments. We encourage the Administration to take stock of lessons learned from the Washington Accord process so far and focus upcoming efforts on fostering a sustainable peace between the warring parties that advances both U.S. interests and long-term regional stability. Sincerely, ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-and-wicker-introduce-bipartisan-resolution-to-recognize-anniversary-of-holodomor-famine-reaffirm-support-for-ukraine,"Kaine & Wicker Introduce Bipartisan Resolution to Recognize Anniversary of Holodomor Famine, Reaffirm Support for Ukraine",2025-11-20,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,VA,Tim Kaine,K000384,www.kaine.senate.gov,kaine,https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee (SFRC), and Roger Wicker (R-MS), Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, introduced a resolution recognizing the 93rd anniversary of the Ukrainian famine of 1932–1933, known as the Holodomor, and emphasizing the threat of Russia’s current war in Ukraine to the existence of the Ukrainian people and global food security. “Ninety-three years ago, millions of innocent Ukrainian men, women, and children starved to death when Stalin inflicted a premeditated famine in Ukraine in an effort to break the nation’s resistance to Soviet occupation,” said Kaine. “Today, Vladimir Putin’s brutal and unprovoked war against Ukraine, including his intentional and concerted attacks on the Ukrainian agricultural sector, once again threatens the survival of the Ukrainian people. We must honor the victims and survivors of the Holodomor by condemning Putin’s war on Ukraine and his cruel weaponization of hunger. I will continue to do all that I can to support Ukraine’s right to defend itself against Russian attacks.” “Stalin murdered millions of Ukrainians with his man-made famine. As we commemorate those horrors, we must recognize Vladimir Putin’s current assault. When Ukrainians see Putin, they see the latest Russian dictator eager to wipe their country off the face of the earth. Is it any wonder they are fighting so hard against this war criminal? The United States must continue supporting these patriots as they defend their homes from the latest Russian assault,” said Wicker. Russia’s unilateral withdrawal from the Black Sea Grain Initiative in 2023, a deal that allowed international shipments of corn, wheat, barley, and other food products from three ports in Ukraine, caused prices for grains to skyrocket around the world. This has raised the risk of hunger for millions of people in countries dependent on Ukrainian food exports, predominantly people in low- and middle-income countries in the Middle East, North Africa, South Asia, and sub-Saharan Africa. Russia’s attacks on Ukraine’s agricultural sector and energy grid have further exacerbated this unprecedented global food crisis, with more than 345 million people around the world facing acute food insecurity in 2023. Full text of the resolution is available here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-renews-call-for-answers-from-trump-administration-over-military-buildup-near-venezuela-and-illegal-lethal-boat-strikes,Kaine Renews Call for Answers from Trump Administration Over Military Buildup Near Venezuela & Illegal Lethal Boat Strikes,2025-11-20,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,VA,Tim Kaine,K000384,www.kaine.senate.gov,kaine,https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA), a member of the Senate Armed Services and Foreign Relations Committees, released the following statement regarding the Trump Administration’s military buildup off the coast of Venezuela and ongoing unlawful strikes in the Caribbean Sea and eastern Pacific Ocean. The strikes began on September 2, 2025 and have killed at least 82 unknown people across 21 acknowledged attacks: “Earlier this month, it was publicly reported that the United Kingdom’s attorney general was urging ministers to cut off intelligence sharing with the United States over serious concerns about the legality of the Trump Administration’s unauthorized and lethal strikes on boats in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific Ocean. Today, it was publicly reported that the senior lawyer at SOUTHCOM, the combatant command overseeing those strikes, disagreed with the Administration’s assertion that these strikes are legal, and was overruled. Given those realities, and the fact that the Administration is weighing land strikes in Venezuela and amassing an enormous number of military assets in the region, it’s long past time for Congress to finally get substantive and complete answers to the questions Democratic and Republican lawmakers have been asking for months, and for the Administration to be transparent about its strategic intentions in the region. The American people have no interest in stumbling into an illegal new war that would place the lives of our servicemembers at risk. ” On November 11, 2025, it was reported that the U.K. spy agencies and military stopped sharing intelligence with the U.S. about suspected drug trafficking vessels following an order by the country’s attorney general. On November 15, 2025, additional reporting shed light on the strain the Administration’s strikes were putting on the United States’ relationships with other allies, including those critical to joint counternarcotics efforts. On November 20, 2025, it was reported that SOUTHCOM’s senior military lawyer raised serious concerns over the legality of the Trump Administration’s plans to begin the boat strikes. Shortly after the first strike, Kaine led 24 of his Senate colleagues in pressing the Trump Administration for answers to a series of questions, including the legal justification for the strikes, who was targeted, why the targets were destroyed rather than interdicted as a means of gathering additional intelligence to assist counternarcotics efforts, whether assessments had been made about potential responses to the strikes such as violent action in the United States, and more. Kaine did not receive a response. The following month, Senate Armed Services Committee Chairman Roger Wicker (R-MS) and Ranking Member Jack Reed (D-RI) announced that two letters they sent to the Administration requesting key information about the strikes had also gone unanswered. On October 8, 2025, the Senate voted on a War Powers Resolution led by Kaine and U.S. Senator Adam Schiff (D-CA) that would have blocked the continued use of U.S. Armed Forces in the southern Caribbean Sea without an Authorization of Military Force (AUMF) by Congress. On November 6, 2025, the Senate voted on a separate War Powers Resolution led by Kaine, Schiff, and U.S. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) that would have blocked the use of the U.S. Armed Forces to engage in hostilities within or against Venezuela unless that action has been authorized by Congress. Neither resolution gained enough Republican support to pass. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=0E9AD76F-91B6-4322-A14D-610496D535E4,"On Senate Floor, Warner Sounds Alarm on Political Purge of FBI, Collapse of U.S. Cyber Defenses Under Trump",2025-11-20,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,VA,Mark R. Warner,W000805,www.warner.senate.gov,warner,https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases,scraper,"BROADCAST-QUALITY VIDEO IS AVAILABLE HERE WASHINGTON – Today, Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA), Vice Chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, delivered a speech on the floor of the U.S. Senate warning that the United States faces a deepening threat to our security as the Trump administration continues a sweeping political purge of the FBI, dismantles America’s cyber defenses, and hollow outs the institutions responsible for protecting the homeland. Today’s remarks follow a September address in which Warner outlined concerns with the growing politicization of intelligence under the Trump administration. In his speech today – “A Deepening Threat: How Politicizing Intelligence Endangers Our National Security” – Warner detailed how thousands of FBI agents and senior leaders have been forced out for political reasons, including the heads of the Bureau’s counterterrorism, intelligence, cyber, and critical incident response units. He warned that these purges, combined with the unprecedented reassignment of 25 to 45 percent of FBI agents working counterterrorism, cyber, espionage, and child exploitation cases to President Trump’s immigration roundups, have sharply reduced the Bureau’s ability to prevent attacks, disrupt foreign plots, and respond to cyber intrusions. “Firing agents who investigate terrorists, foreign spies, cyber hackers, and child predators does not make America safer, especially when the president’s own intelligence officials warn, publicly and repeatedly, of the many threats facing our nation,” said Warner today. Warner also highlighted the administration’s dismantling of core cyber infrastructure beyond the FBI. More than one-third of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has been fired and pushed out, even as ransomware and destructive cyberattacks hit state and local governments in at least 44 states. The administration has removed the leadership of the National Security Agency and Defense Intelligence Agency, left U.S. Cyber Command without a permanent commander, and disbanded the Foreign Influence Task Force responsible for safeguarding U.S. elections from foreign interference. Quoting the intelligence community’s own assessments, Warner underscored the intensifying threat environment: Beijing expanding AI-enabled malign influence operations; Moscow increasing the sophistication and volume of its disinformation and cyber activities; and Iran enhancing its capacity for aggressive cyberattacks on U.S. networks and infrastructure. Warner warned that the administration’s political interference, including the gutting of the FBI’s operational capabilities and the erosion of federal cyber defenses, is leaving Americans at growing risk. “The next attack will not wait for Congress to act,” Warner said. “And when it comes, the consequences will not be measured in polling numbers or election results. They will be measured in lives lost, infrastructure damaged, and national security compromised.” Warner reiterated that he will return to the Senate floor in the coming weeks to continue highlighting instances of political interference across the federal government’s national security apparatus and to press for urgent action to restore integrity and protect the American people. Senator Warner’s remarks as prepared for delivery appear below: M. President, two months ago, I came to this floor to warn about the growing politicization of our intelligence community. I laid out, in detail, how this administration, led by Director of National Intelligence Gabbard, was dismantling the independence, integrity, and credibility of the very institutions we rely on to keep Americans safe. I had hoped that by sounding that alarm early, the administration might reconsider its actions… or at the very least, slow its march toward turning our intelligence agencies into instruments of political loyalty. But instead, the situation has grown only more dangerous. And I want to say at the outset: this will not be the last time I come to this floor on this issue. I intend to continue making these speeches… for as long as it takes… because the stakes for our national security are too high to let this pattern go unchallenged. Since my remarks in September, we’ve seen not restraint, but an escalation… an escalation of political retaliation, of the hollowing out of expertise, and of the outright manipulation of intelligence. We are watching, in real time, an administration strip away the guardrails that have protected this country for generations. I have had the distinct privilege of representing the people of Virginia in this body since 2009. And in nearly 17 years, one of the most consequential responsibilities I’ve held has been serving on the Senate Intelligence Committee… first as a junior member and then, for the last eight years, as Chairman or Vice Chairman. I always tell our new members that getting a seat on the Committee is a double-edged sword. On the one hand, you get access to things that no other Senators see… you see capabilities that would astonish even the most seasoned spy-novel reader among us. But the other edge is harder: you also see the full scope of the threats facing the United States… daily reports about terrorist plots, cyber-attacks, hostile foreign services targeting our citizens and institutions. And once you’ve seen that picture clearly, you don’t sleep quite so easily at night. It’s precisely because those threats are real, persistent, and in many cases, growing, that I’m so deeply concerned about the Trump administration’s reckless actions – actions that have left our country more vulnerable than at any point in recent memory. Just last month, FBI Director Kash Patel testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee that the FBI has experienced a 300percent increase in terrorist cases opened this year alone… on top of a 30percent increase in foreign espionage cases. At the Senate Intelligence Committee’s Annual Threat Assessment hearing, Director Gabbard reiterated that foreign terrorists remain intent on striking the United States and our citizens… that a range of cyber and intelligence actors continue to target our critical infrastructure… and that state adversaries possess weapons capable of hitting U.S. territory and disabling vital U.S. systems. Indeed, in an interview earlier this month, Director Gabbard repeated that “terrorism continues to pose the greatest – both short- and long-term – threat to the American people.” Whatever one thinks of the individuals delivering them, the assessments themselves leave no ambiguity about the dangers confronting the United States. And yet, in spite of those clear and present threats, the Trump administration has chosen a course of action that weakens our defenses and leaves Americans more vulnerable to the very risks its own officials have publicly described. Since Inauguration Day, the president and his hand-picked FBI Director, Kash Patel, have forced out thousands of experienced agents for reasons that appear more political than professional, like refusing to lie about who won the 2020 election, or for prosecuting the violent criminals who attacked Capitol Police officers on January 6, or simply for being friendly with someone critical of the president. Alarming court filings suggest that even Director Patel has privately acknowledged that many of these actions may be illegal… yet justified them by saying that his position depended on carrying them out. The list of those purged reads like a Who’s Who of the Bureau’s most decorated public servants: Those agents forced out include the former Acting Director of the FBI, Brian Driscoll, who rose through the FBI ranks in some of its most elite units, including the FBI’s Hostage Rescue Team… where in 2015 he supported U.S. Special Operations in rescuing an American humanitarian aid worker, Kayla Mueller, from ISIS. Special Agent Driscoll would later rise to be the Head of FBI’s Critical Incident Response Group, the FBI’s elite team in charge of dealing with terrorists, child abductors, bomb threats, and hostage situations. For his service, Agent Driscoll was awarded the FBI Medal of Valor and the Shield of Bravery… only to have Director Patel fire him because he would not purge agents the president deemed politically disloyal. They include Bobby Wells, who joined the FBI shortly after 9/11 and spent decades in counterterrorism. He eventually became the Head of the FBI’s Counterterrorism Division, leading efforts against Al Qa’ida, ISIS, and other global terrorist networks. Notably, he helped bring to justice the mastermind of the Kabul International Airport bombing that killed 13 American service members – an accomplishment publicly touted by the president – only to have the president fire him shortly thereafter. They include Michael Nordwall, the Head of the FBI’s Criminal Cyber Response Branch, who led efforts to combat ransomware attacks, online fraud, and sophisticated cyber intrusions targeting critical U.S. infrastructure. They include Ryan Young, the Head of FBI’s Intelligence Division… overseeing the collection and analysis of intelligence on domestic and foreign threats, ensuring that field offices had the situational awareness to prevent attacks. Other senior agents forced out include dozens of heads of FBI field offices nationwide, from Washington, D.C., to Miami, New Orleans, Las Vegas, and Seattle. Among them was Special Agent Jacqueline Maguire, the lead investigator into the five hijackers of American Airlines Flight 77, whose expertise was critical to understanding 9/11 and preventing further attacks. And most recently, they include Steven Palmer, a 27-year veteran of the FBI and the third head of the FBI’s elite Critical Incident Response Group to be fired in just three months. As head of the Critical Incident Response Group, he led teams tasked with responding to terrorist attacks, mass shootings, hostage crises, and high-risk national security incidents… work that requires split-second decision-making under extreme pressure. He was fired not for failing in his duties, not for misconduct, and not for political disagreements about law enforcement policy. He was fired because the American people learned that Director Patel had been using the FBI’s $60 million jet, at $20,000 per flight, to go on dates with his girlfriend. To make matters worse, recent reporting indicates that Patel has now also pulled agents off of an FBI SWAT team to provide a personal security detail for his girlfriend… an unprecedented use of some of one our nation’s most elite units, ordinarily assigned to deal with terrorism, hostage situations, or mass shootings. Thousands of FBI agents… all forced out, not because they failed to do their jobs, but because they refused to bend the knee to partisan politics. And as if that weren’t alarming enough, in recent months the FBI has reassigned between 25 and 45 percent of its agents who handle counterterrorism, cyber, espionage, child sexual abuse, and other critical missions… to immigration enforcement. Data reveals a 33 percent decrease in the hours spent on child exploitation cases, compared to previous years. Firing agents who investigate terrorists, foreign spies, cyber hackers, and child predators does not make America safer, especially when the president’s own intelligence officials warn, publicly and repeatedly, of the many threats facing our nation. Just this summer, the ODNI issued a bulletin warning of Al Qa-ida and ISIS plots targeting the homeland. And just last month, the FBI disrupted ISIS terrorist plots in Michigan and New Jersey that may have been aimed at Halloween festivities. I shudder to think what would have happened had the FBI missed these plots… had semi-automatic rifles been unleashed on young children trick-or-treating. The FBI Agents Association, which represents over 90percent of all active FBI agents, issued a sobering warning earlier this month that Director Patel, quote, “disregarded the law and launched a campaign of erratic and arbitrary retribution” and that his actions, quote, “make the American public less safe.” Unfortunately, this political purge of our country’s defenses is not limited to the FBI. Since April, the National Security Agency – the agency in charge of spying on the communications of our adversaries – has been without a permanent Director or Deputy Director after President Trump fired General Tim Haugh and his Deputy, Wendy Noble, at the behest of conspiracy theorist Laura Loomer. Same for the Defense Intelligence Agency, whose director, General Jeff Kruse, was fired after DIA provided a fact-based assessment that contradicted the president’s false televised claim that U.S. strikes had “obliterated” Iran’s nuclear program. This pattern of reckless firings has extended to nearly every corner of our national security enterprise. Hundreds of workers who are responsible for maintaining our country’s nuclear weapons… fired. Staff managing foreign assistance programs ranging from the detention of ISIS terrorists in Syria to air defense support for Ukraine… fired. Hundreds of analysts monitoring China and Russia… fired… including a 29-year veteran of the CIA who supported President Trump’s Alaska Summit with President Putin… whose undercover identity was publicly and incompetently disclosed by DNI Tulsi Gabbard. More than one-third of CISA – the agency Congress established for the explicit purpose of protecting our critical infrastructure like water, power, and our elections – fired… even as major cyberattacks hit state and local governments in at least 44 states, including a massive ransomware attack on Nevada’s online government systems in August, a ransomware attack in July on local government networks in St. Paul, Minnesota, and a cyberattack on city systems in Mission, Texas in February. The irony is stark: despite persistent efforts by China, Russia, Iran, and other adversaries, the 2020 presidential election was one of the most secure in history, thanks in large part to steps taken during the Trump administration’s first term to safeguard our critical infrastructure. Yet now, much of that hard-won protection has been dismantled, leaving Americans more vulnerable than ever. Cyber Command, which under General Paul Nakasone disrupted Russian troll farms in 2017, lacks a permanent Commander. The Foreign Influence Task Force – stood up by President Trump in his first term to share information with state and local partners about foreign interference in our elections – has been disbanded entirely. And all the while, the administration’s own intelligence reporting warns – and I quote: “Beijing will continue to expand its coercive and subversive malign influence activities to weaken the United States…[and] is likely to feel emboldened to use malign influence more regularly in coming years, particularly as it fields AI to improve its capabilities.” “Moscow’s malign influence activities will continue for the foreseeable future and will almost certainly increase in sophistication and volume.” “Iran’s growing expertise and willingness to conduct aggressive cyber operations make it a major threat to the security of U.S. networks and data.” The pattern is unmistakable: political loyalty is now valued over competence, and the very institutions created to protect Americans are being dismantled before our eyes. We can no longer pretend that politics and national security are separate. Every day we allow this purge to continue is a day we leave Americans more exposed – in their homes, on their streets, and online. The next attack will not wait for Congress to act. The next threat will not ask permission. And when it comes, the consequences will not be measured in polling numbers or election results. They will be measured in lives lost, infrastructure damaged, and national security compromised. This is the moment to stand up. To defend our intelligence agencies, to protect our agents, and to safeguard the American people. If we fail to act now, we will bear the cost later… a cost that could be catastrophic. Thank you. I yield the floor. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=7C50C853-A391-4A47-9ABD-C7132654BF09,Warner Responds to FCC Rollback of Salt Typhoon Cybersecurity Rules,2025-11-20,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,VA,Mark R. Warner,W000805,www.warner.senate.gov,warner,https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA), Vice Chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence and co-founder of the Senate Cybersecurity Caucus, released the following statement after the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) voted to roll back cybersecurity regulations put in place following Salt Typhoon, the worst telecommunications cyberattack in our nation’s history: “In the aftermath of the worst telecommunications compromise in our nation’s history, today’s vote by the FCC walks back yet another effort to set meaningful, enforceable cybersecurity standards for America’s communications backbone, after congressional Republicans overturned cybersecurity rules set by the FCC in 2017. “The Salt Typhoon intrusion made clear that existing voluntary measures alone have not been sufficient to prevent sophisticated, state-sponsored actors from gaining long-term, covert access to critical networks. While collaboration with industry is essential, it must be paired with clear, enforceable expectations that reflect the scale of the threat. “I am concerned that abandoning an enforceable, standards-based approach in favor of undefined ‘flexible’ solutions leaves us without a credible plan to address the gaps exposed by Salt Typhoon, including basic failures like credential reuse and the absence of multi-factor authentication for highly privileged accounts. “Congress, the administration, and the FCC should be moving toward greater transparency and stronger protections, not less. I will continue pressing for a comprehensive national strategy to ensure that our telecommunications infrastructure is resilient against the kinds of intrusions we know are not hypothetical, but ongoing.” ### * High-quality photographs of Sen. Mark R. Warner are available for downloadhere*",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=E503898E-3FED-4500-831B-6996AADE4DF4,"Warner, Wyden Call on Trump to Help Seniors When Insurance Companies Drop Doctors from Their Plans",2025-11-20,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,VA,Mark R. Warner,W000805,www.warner.senate.gov,warner,https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) and Ron Wyden (D-OR), Ranking Member of the Senate Finance Committee, called on the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to provide seniors enrolled in Medicare Advantage with more information when a significant number of doctors or hospitals no longer accept their insurance in the middle of the year. “We write to you today to express our concerns about increasing turmoil and uncertainty for seniors and people with disabilities enrolled in the Medicare Advantage program,” wrote the senators. “As of April 2025, there have been at least 13 states with ‘significant network changes,’ triggering a special enrollment period for MA enrollees in these states. These types of interruptions to the network cannot only affect enrollees' access to care that may already be planned or scheduled, leaving them without an in-network provider, but also leave MA enrollees confused about their coverage options.” When a senior enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan loses a significant number of health providers from their plan in the middle of the year, CMS may allow them to switch plans in a “special enrollment period.” However, the circumstances for how these special enrollment periods are determined are opaque, and there is minimal notice to the public, states, and enrollees. The letter calls on CMS to clarify how these special enrollment periods are determined, describe how seniors in Medicare are notified about plan changes, and additional information to improve transparency around these challenging circumstances. The full letter can be found here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-van-hollen-meeks-and-castro-lead-colleagues-in-raising-alarm-about-use-of-us-taxpayer-funding-to-hold-people-in-el-salvadoran-torture-center,"Kaine, Van Hollen, Meeks, & Castro Lead Colleagues in Raising Alarm About Use of U.S. Taxpayer Funding to Hold People In El Salvadoran Torture Center",2025-11-19,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,VA,Tim Kaine,K000384,www.kaine.senate.gov,kaine,https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA), Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on the Western Hemisphere, and Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on State Department and USAID Management, International Operations, and Bilateral International Development, along with U.S. Representatives Gregory Meeks (D-NY-05), Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, and Joaquin Castro (D-TX-20), Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on the Western Hemisphere, led 38 lawmakers in sending a letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem raising alarm about the horrific conditions at Centro de Confinamiento del Terrorismo (CECOT), El Salvador’s notorious megaprison and torture center, and pressing the Trump Administration on its use of U.S. taxpayer funding to send and hold people there. This follows a Human Rights Watch and Cristosal report published on November 12 that found a systemic pattern of abuse and torture at CECOT. “We write to you expressing profound concern over the findings of the recently published report titled ‘You Have Arrived in Hell: Torture and Other Abuses Against Venezuelans in El Salvador’s Mega Prison,’” wrote the members. “This meticulously researched report, published on November 12 by Human Rights Watch and the El Salvador-based Cristosal exposes the systematic pattern of abuse and torture experienced by the 252 Venezuelan nationals the Trump Administration sent to El Salvador’s notorious Centro de Confinamiento del Terrorismo (CECOT) between March and April of 2025. It also finds that the Administration failed to respect the principle of non-refoulment and questions the Administration’s reliance on El Salvador’s assurances that it would abide by the UN Convention Against Torture.” The members continued, “We urge you to investigate these findings and provide an immediate explanation to Congress and to the American people for the Trump Administration’s complicity in subjecting these individuals to such horrific and cruel treatment.” “Longstanding domestic and international law prohibit the United States from transferring any person from our jurisdiction or effective control to any place where the person would face such serious human rights violations,” the members pressed. “Yet, the Department of Homeland Security sent these individuals to El Salvador to be detained at CECOT, and the Department of State provided $4.76 million dollars to cover the costs ‘associated with’ their detention.” “These violations are a stain on the moral conscience of our country. We urge you to take all necessary steps to ensure that the United States is never again complicit in such horrific and unlawful behavior,” the senators concluded. In addition to Kaine, Van Hollen, Meeks, and Castro, the letter was cosigned by U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Peter Welch (D-VT), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Ed Markey (D-MA), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Andy Kim (D-NJ), and U.S. Representatives Jim McGovern (D-MA-02), Sarah McBride (D-DE-AL), Bill Keating (D-MA-09), James R. Walkinshaw (D-VA-11), Dina Titus (D-NV-01), Dan Goldman (D-NY-10), Nydia Velázquez (D-NY-07), Greg Casar (D-TX-35), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC-AL), Yvette Clarke (D-NY-09), Mark Pocan (D-WI-02), Julie Johnson (D-TX-32), Madeleine Dean (D-PA-04), Steve Cohen (D-TN-09), Yassamin Ansari (D-AZ-03), Maxine Dexter (D-OR-03), Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D-CA-37), Gabe Amo (D-RI-01), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL-25), Greg Stanton (D-AZ-04), Don Beyer (D-VA-08), and Grace Meng (D-NY-06). Full text of the letter is available here and below: Dear Secretaries Rubio and Noem, We write to you expressing profound concern over the findings of the recently published report titled ""You Have Arrived in Hell: Torture and Other Abuses Against Venezuelans in El Salvador’s Mega Prison.” This meticulously researched report, published on November 12 by Human Rights Watch and the El Salvador-based Cristosal exposes the systematic pattern of abuse and torture experienced by the 252 Venezuelan nationals the Trump Administration sent to El Salvador’s notorious Centro de Confinamiento del Terrorismo (CECOT) between March and April of 2025. It also finds that the Administration failed to respect the principle of non-refoulment and questions the Administration’s reliance on El Salvador’s assurances that it would abide by the UN Convention Against Torture. We urge you to investigate these findings and provide an immediate explanation to Congress and to the American people for the Trump Administration’s complicity in subjecting these individuals to such horrific and cruel treatment. After being held at CECOT for approximately four months, the 252 detainees were released to Venezuelan custody on July 18, 2025. Following their release, Human Rights Watch and Cristosal were able to locate and interview 40 of these individuals, as well as interview another 150 people with credible knowledge of their experiences to corroborate their stories. What they shared was horrifying and reflects treatment consistent with torture under international human rights law. Verbal abuse, denial of basic hygiene and sanitation, and inadequate food or access to healthcare were the norm. Every single one of the interviewees reported daily physical and psychological abuse for the entire duration of their detention, including suffering from severe beatings for “infractions” as simple as speaking too loudly or bathing at a time that displeased prison guards. Several detainees reported incidents of sexual violence, including rape. Many of the detainees continue to suffer from physical injuries sustained during their time in CECOT, as well as from psychological trauma. The detainees also described the grotesque treatment they suffered in connection with high-profile visits to CECOT by U.S. government officials – including Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. According to the detainees, prior to Noem’s March 26 visit, guards provided them with hygiene items and sheets, and mattresses. Thirty minutes after Noem’s departure, detainees who had protested her arrival were beaten severely and deprived of access to water and food for the rest of the day. Detainees were also beaten after visits by the International Committee of the Red Cross, and after detainees mounted protests against their treatment. Longstanding domestic and international law prohibit the United States from transferring any person from our jurisdiction or effective control to any place where the person would face such serious human rights violations. Yet, the Department of Homeland Security sent these individuals to El Salvador to be detained at CECOT, and the Department of State provided $4.76 million dollars to cover the costs “associated with” their detention. Given what appears to be the U.S. government’s complicity in abuses against these individuals, we ask for responses to the following questions no later than November 21: What were the full terms of the agreement between the U.S. and El Salvador regarding the detention of these individuals? Which U.S. government official(s) authorized the transfer of $4.76 million in State Department funding to Salvadoran security agencies in compensation for detaining these individuals, and under what authority were these funds transferred? Are there any restrictions on how El Salvador can use those funds, and how is the U.S. verifying compliance? The Inter-American Commission on Human Rights, among other organizations, has long raised concerns regarding torture in Salvadoran prisons, including CECOT. What assessment was conducted regarding the treatment of detainees and detention standards in CECOT prior to the arrival of these individuals? What due diligence did you conduct to ensure that detainees sent to CECOT from the United States would not be subject to torture? Will the administration incorporate the findings of the report into the 2026 Human Rights Report for El Salvador? These violations are a stain on the moral conscience of our country. We urge you to take all necessary steps to ensure that the United States is never again complicit in such horrific and unlawful behavior. Sincerely, ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/senate-blocks-passage-of-kaines-legislation-to-demand-accountability-for-saudi-sponsored-murder-of-virginia-resident-jamal-khashoggi,Senate Blocks Passage of Kaine’s Legislation to Demand Accountability for Saudi-Sponsored Murder of Virginia Resident Jamal Khashoggi,2025-11-19,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,VA,Tim Kaine,K000384,www.kaine.senate.gov,kaine,https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, spoke on the Senate floor to ask unanimous consent for passage of his resolution to commemorate the seventh anniversary of journalist and Northern Virginia resident Jamal Khashoggi’s murder, which was directed by Saudi government officials. The legislation’s passage was blocked by an objecting senator. Kaine’s push came the day after President Donald Trump hosted Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) in the White House and defended the Crown Prince when asked about Khashoggi’s murder. “Jamal Khashoggi was brutally murdered by the Saudi government because he dedicated his life to uncovering the truth and shed light on the repressive nature of the Saudi regime,” said Kaine. “The passage of my resolution honoring Mr. Khashoggi and calling for accountability for his murder should be a no-brainer. It is particularly outrageous that any senator would object to this simple resolution while saying nothing about President Trump rolling out the red carpet for MBS and leveraging the presidency for private business deals that benefit his family.” Full video of Kaine asking the Senate to unanimously pass his legislation honoring Khashoggi is available here. Kaine has been repeatedly outspoken against the Saudi-sponsored murder of Khashoggi and has demanded accountability since 2018. In 2019, following a recommendation made by the United Nations, Kaine called on the FBI to open an investigation into the murder of Khashoggi after months of continued inaction by President Trump in his first term. In 2022, Kaine criticized the U.S. State Department’s decision to support MBS’ claim of sovereign immunity in a lawsuit brought by Khashoggi’s friends and family following the murder. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/warner-and-kaine-announce-70-million-to-modernize-virginias-buses,Warner & Kaine Announce $70 Million to Modernize Virginia’s Buses,2025-11-19,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,VA,Tim Kaine,K000384,www.kaine.senate.gov,kaine,https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) announced almost $70 million in federal grant funding to improve Virginia’s bus systems and reduce their emissions. This funding is awarded through the Department of Transportation’s FY25-26 Low- or No-Emission Program and FY25 Buses & Bus Facilities Program, which is made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law that the senators helped negotiate and pass. “Reliable access to public transportation is vital to Virginians, and we’re thrilled to announce this funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law that will modernize and electrify buses across the Commonwealth’s cities and rural communities, increasing their efficiency, boosting accessibility, and reducing operating costs and environmental risk,” said the senators. The program grants will be distributed as follows: The Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation (DRPT) will receive $8,621,909 for Phase III of the VA Rural Transit Asset Management and Modernization Program, which purchases or improves current buses to increase performance, update technology, and reduce risk to the environment in rural Virginia. The City of Alexandria (VA-08) will receive $10,939,552 for its DASH Bus Fleet Replacement & Facility Rehabilitation project, which aims to transition the city to 100% zero-emission buses as well as purchase and build necessary transit facilities to support its growing fleet. The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) will receive $50,322,380 for the procurement of low-emission transit buses, which will serve communities throughout the DMV and reduce the harm from toxic emissions in the region. Warner and Kaine have long supported efforts to fund lower emission vehicles. Last year, the senators announced over $50 million in federal funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s Low- or No-Emission Program for Fairfax County to purchase new low-emission hybrid buses under the county’s fleet replacement plan. In 2023, they secured more than $171 million in funding to invest in American-built, low-emission buses and bus facilities. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law has brought billions of dollars in investments to Virginia, including resources to repair roads and bridges, expand broadband access, improve airports, ports and waterways, and modernize public transportation. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/warner-and-kaine-announce-federal-funding-for-community-projects-throughout-virginia,Warner & Kaine Announce Federal Funding for Community Projects Throughout Virginia,2025-11-19,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,VA,Tim Kaine,K000384,www.kaine.senate.gov,kaine,https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) announced $48,650,000 in federal funding coming to Virginia for community-specific projects. Funding for the projects below was secured by Warner and Kaine and signed by the president earlier this month. “These projects will address important needs across many Virginia communities, from bridging gaps in emergency services, to improving public gathering places to supporting health care access for underserved families,” said Warner. “I was proud to fight to include funding for these projects as part of the appropriations process earlier this summer, and I look forward to seeing it make a difference across the Commonwealth.” “Every year, I’m proud of the work that we do with communities to fund important local projects. I’m thrilled that over $48 million in federal funding we secured is headed to Virginia to support health care and child care, enhance public safety, and make improvements at military installations. I'm also glad that the legislation I helped pass includes dramatic increases in funding to feed hungry families and ensure our veterans have access to high-quality services,” said Kaine. “I will keep working to get the remaining funding bills, which include more money for Virginia community projects, across the finish line.” As part of the Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations process, members of Congress were able to work with the communities they represent to request funding for local community projects, otherwise known as earmarks, in a manner that promotes transparency and accountability. This process allows Congress to dedicate federal funding for specific projects in Virginia. As part of this process, Warner and Kaine were able to secure more than $48.6 million for community projects across the Commonwealth. Through strong advocacy, the senators secured funding in the budget bills for the following projects in Virginia: $15,000,000 for Naval Station Norfolk to support construction of substations, associated power stations, and related infrastructure at Pier 14 to support aircraft carrier operations. $12,000,000 for JEB Little Creek-Fort Story in Virginia Beach to support construction of a new multi-story, multi-facility complex with operational, maintenance, planning, and storage space to accommodate new Expeditionary Mine Countermeasure (ExMCM) mission requirements assigned to Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit (EODMU) TWELVE and consolidated Mobile Diving & Salvage Unit (MDSU) TWO mission requirements. $6,900,000 for NSA Northwest Annex in Chesapeake to support the planning and design of a new 250-person enlisted quarters for military personnel. $5,700,000 for Marine Corps Base Quantico to support the construction of a new, larger Child Development Center for active-duty military and Department of Defense (DOD) civilian families. $2,200,000 for Naval Weapons Station Yorktown to support the construction of a new utility substation at Pier R3, which will dock Virginia-class submarines. $2,000,000 for Colonial Behavioral Health to support the construction of a new health care campus that will provide integrated primary, behavioral, and oral health care, as well as pharmacy services, to Virginians in James City County and across the surrounding region. $1,300,000 for Northampton County to replace and upgrade a septic system in a building that is being converted into a community center. $1,000,000 for Bedford County to preserve and renovate a historical school into a community center that will be used for child care, elder care, and medical care, as well as other community-oriented services. $1,000,000 for Carroll County to expand the Carroll County Wellness Center and purchase new equipment to accommodate a growing population and increase patient capacity. Staff at the center provide restorative care, chronic disease management, and fitness services. $398,000 for the Town of Grundy to purchase a new fire truck to support emergency response. $376,000 for the Town of Crewe to renovate and repair the Crewe Community Center. $303,000 for Appalachian Highlands Community Dental Center to purchase four dental milling machines for the Safety Net Dental Lab in Abingdon. $285,000 for the City of Bristol to purchase new municipal support vehicles for its fire department to improve safety and efficiency. $188,000 for the Town of Lebanon to purchase a replacement brush truck. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=28A42E0C-08A2-4D32-AF92-2F1B16D188C1,Warner & Kaine Announce $70 Million to Modernize Virginia's Buses,2025-11-19,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,VA,Mark R. Warner,W000805,www.warner.senate.gov,warner,https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases,scraper,"WASHINGTON - Today, U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) announced almost $70 million in federal grant funding to improve Virginia’s bus systems and reduce their emissions. This funding is awarded through the Department of Transportation’s FY25-26 Low- or No-Emission Program and FY25 Buses & Bus Facilities Program, which is made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law that the senators helped negotiate and pass. “Reliable access to public transportation is vital to Virginians, and we’re thrilled to announce this funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law that will modernize and electrify buses across the Commonwealth’s cities and rural communities, increasing their efficiency, boosting accessibility, and reducing operating costs and environmental risk,” said the senators. The program grants will be distributed as follows: The Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation (DRPT) will receive $8,621,909 for Phase III of the VA Rural Transit Asset Management and Modernization Program, which purchases or improves current buses to increase performance, update technology, and reduce risk to the environment in rural Virginia. The City of Alexandria (VA-08) will receive $10,939,552 for its DASH Bus Fleet Replacement & Facility Rehabilitation project, which aims to transition the city to 100% zero-emission buses as well as purchase and build necessary transit facilities to support its growing fleet. The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) will receive $50,322,380 for the procurement of low-emission transit buses, which will serve communities throughout the DMV and reduce the harm from toxic emissions in the region. Sens. Warner and Kaine have long supported efforts to fund lower emission vehicles. Last year, the senators announced over $50 million in federal funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s Low- or No-Emission Program for Fairfax County to purchase new low-emission hybrid buses under the county’s fleet replacement plan. In 2023, they secured more than $171 million in funding to invest in American-built, low-emission buses and bus facilities. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law has brought billions of dollars in investments to Virginia, including resources to repair roads and bridges, expand broadband access, improve airports, ports and waterways, and modernize public transportation. ### ‘* High-quality photographs of Sen. Mark R. Warner are available for downloadhere*",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=343EF8B6-1063-479C-842F-75D4F34CFE47,Sen. Warner Applauds Virginia Broadband Approval,2025-11-19,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,VA,Mark R. Warner,W000805,www.warner.senate.gov,warner,https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) released the following statement today after the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) announced approval of Virginia’s Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Final Proposal, clearing the way for more than $545 million in federal funding to connect the remaining 133,000 unserved locations across the Commonwealth to high-speed internet: “Expanding broadband access has been a top priority of mine since my time as governor, and I’m proud that Virginia continues to remain a national leader in this effort. When I wrote the broadband sections of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the goal was simple: give states the resources to finally finish the job. Today’s approval shows that work paying off, and now Virginia is poised to become one of the first states in the country with high-speed internet for every home and business.” As a result of today’s announcement, Virginia is set to receive more than $545 million in additional BEAD funding, leveraging nearly $430 million in additional private investment. Awarded projects will extend broadband infrastructure to more than 133,000 unserved homes, businesses, and community anchor institutions across the Commonwealth. Sen. Warner has long fought to expand access to broadband in Virginia. During negotiations for the bipartisan infrastructure law, Sen. Warner secured $65 billion in nationwide funding to help deploy broadband, increase access, and decrease costs associated with connecting to the internet. The BEAD Program was created and funded through this landmark legislation and provided $42.45 billion in federal funding to expand high-speed internet access by funding planning, infrastructure deployment and adoption programs in all states and territories. ### * High-quality photographs of Sen. Mark R. Warner are available for downloadhere*",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-colleagues-introduce-legislation-to-block-senators-from-accessing-500000-personal-windfalls-of-taxpayer-money,"Kaine, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Block Senators from Accessing $500,000 Personal Windfalls of Taxpayer Money",2025-11-18,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,VA,Tim Kaine,K000384,www.kaine.senate.gov,kaine,https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA) joined U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), and 25 additional Democratic senators in introducing the Anti-Cash Grab Act, legislation to repeal a provision from the Senate government funding bill that would allow senators to collect $500,000 for each instance when their phone records were obtained in accordance with the law by law enforcement. The provision was quietly added into the funding bill by U.S. Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) at the last minute, following reporting that eight Senate Republicans’ phone records were reviewed as part of a Justice Department criminal investigation into President Donald Trump’s involvement in the January 6 insurrection at the U.S. Capitol. “I’m relieved that last week’s deal has reinstated federal workers who were baselessly fired, ended the pain and chaos caused by President Trump and congressional Republicans’ government shutdown, and secured an upcoming vote to strengthen Americans’ health care,” said Kaine. “But I’m furious that Senate Republicans tucked a ridiculous provision into the legislation to give Republican senators personal windfalls of hundreds of thousands of dollars of taxpayer money. That’s unacceptable, and I’m going to work alongside my Democratic colleagues to do everything we can to block that from happening.” A one-page summary of the bill is here. The full text of the bill is here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-paul-and-wyden-push-speaker-johnson-to-follow-intent-of-law-schedule-votes-on-senate-passed-legislation-to-undo-trumps-cost-raising-tariffs,"Kaine, Paul & Wyden Push Speaker Johnson to Follow Intent of Law, Schedule Votes on Senate-Passed Legislation to Undo Trump’s Cost-Raising Tariffs",2025-11-18,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,VA,Tim Kaine,K000384,www.kaine.senate.gov,kaine,https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA), Rand Paul (R-KY) and Ron Wyden (D-OR), Ranking Member of the Senate Finance Committee, joined together in pushing House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA-04) to bring up for a vote three pieces of bipartisan legislation that the Senate passed last month to undo President Trump’s cost-raising International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) tariffs on goods from Canada, Brazil, and countries around the world. The senators’ letter rails against procedural stalling tactics Johnson has used—despite the fact that roughly 65 percent of Americans disapprove of Trump’s tariffs—to flout provisions in the National Emergencies Act that require the House to vote on the legislation. “The Senate recently voted on a bipartisan basis to end three emergencies declared by the President this year – emergencies related to Canada (S.J. Res. 77), the global goods trade deficit (S. J. Res. 88), and Brazil (S.J. Res. 81) – and thus repeal the sweeping tariffs imposed pursuant to each emergency,” the senators wrote. “…Together, the tariffs imposed pursuant to these three so-called emergencies raise America’s effective tariff rate to Great Depression-era levels, undermining decades of congressionally passed trade laws. These tariffs are affecting all Americans. Consumers are paying higher prices on affected goods. Small businesses are struggling to adapt and survive. Workers are losing their jobs, with October data showing U.S. manufacturing has contracted for an eighth straight month.” “The law sets out a clear process for expedited consideration. Under the NEA, when one chamber passes such a resolution, the other chamber shall refer that resolution to committee, that committee shall report it out within 15 calendar days, the resolution shall become the pending business, and the chamber shall vote on it within three calendar days,” the senators continued. “…Four times now, the House has voted on party lines for a rule that claims, for the purposes of reading the NEA, one calendar day can stretch all the way from March of one year through January of the next – all to block debate and votes on these emergency declarations and the tariffs imposed pursuant to them.” “The Constitution is clear. Only Congress has the power to impose tariffs. The Senate has voted, determining these emergencies, and the tariffs invoked in response, should end. You should follow the expedited process laid out in the NEA and schedule a vote without delay. The American people deserve to see where their Representatives stand,” the lawmakers concluded. Full text of the letter is available here and below. Dear Speaker Johnson: The Senate recently voted on a bipartisan basis to end three emergencies declared by the President this year – emergencies related to Canada (S.J. Res. 77), the global goods trade deficit (S. J. Res. 88), and Brazil (S.J. Res. 81) – and thus repeal the sweeping tariffs imposed pursuant to each emergency.[1] We urge you to follow the procedure for expedited consideration laid out in the National Emergencies Act (NEA) and bring these three joint resolutions up for a vote in the coming weeks. The Administration declared these emergencies under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), an authority that Congress enacted to provide the President with the power to impose sanctions, export controls, and similar measures to address national emergencies. In these cases, though, the administration is using these emergencies to justify significant and broad-based tariff hikes on the American people without any say from Congress. No president has previously used IEEPA to impose tariffs. Article I, Section 8 of the United States Constitution grants Congress the sole power to “regulate Commerce with foreign Nations” and “lay and collect Taxes, Duties, Imposts and Excises.” Tariffs are taxes, paid by Americans. Together, the tariffs imposed pursuant to these three so-called emergencies raise America’s effective tariff rate to Great Depression-era levels, undermining decades of congressionally passed trade laws. These tariffs are affecting all Americans. Consumers are paying higher prices on affected goods. Small businesses are struggling to adapt and survive. Workers are losing their jobs, with October data showing U.S. manufacturing has contracted for an eighth straight month. The drafters of the statute the President is invoking included a fast track process for Congress to act to terminate emergencies under the NEA. Utilizing this privileged process, the U.S. Senate has now voted to terminate each of these emergencies, and each resolution has been sent to the House for consideration pursuant to the NEA. The law sets out a clear process for expedited consideration. Under the NEA, when one chamber passes such a resolution, the other chamber shall refer that resolution to committee, that committee shall report it out within 15 calendar days, the resolution shall become the pending business, and the chamber shall vote on it within three calendar days.[2] Instead of following this fast-track process to ensure the House will vote on these measures within 18 calendar days of receiving them, the House has decided to change its own rules and keep these resolutions from going to the floor automatically. It has refused to act on the Senate-passed resolution terminating the emergency declared with respect to Canada, as well as on similar privileged resolutions introduced in the House.[3] Instead, a narrow, partisan House majority has voted to tie its own hands and prevent the House from even considering these emergencies as Congress intended. Four times now, the House has voted on party lines for a rule that claims, for the purposes of reading the NEA, one calendar day can stretch all the way from March of one year through January of the next – all to block debate and votes on these emergency declarations and the tariffs imposed pursuant to them. The tariff actions taken by the President with respect to these emergencies clearly stretch well past the bounds intended by Congress. Multiple courts have found the President’s tariffs to exceed the scope of authority under IEEPA. It is imperative that Congress weigh in as well given Congress’ constitutional authority over trade and duty to oversee executive action in our system of checks and balances among three coequal branches of government. The Constitution is clear. Only Congress has the power to impose tariffs. The Senate has voted, determining these emergencies, and the tariffs invoked in response, should end. You should follow the expedited process laid out in the NEA and schedule a vote without delay. The American people deserve to see where their Representatives stand. Sincerely, ### [1] The February 2nd emergency related to the Northern Border, the April 2nd emergency related to the goods trade deficit, and the July 30th emergency related to Brazil’s prosecution of their former President. [2] 50 U.S. Code § 1622 [3] S.J. Res 37",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-statement-on-senate-passage-of-bill-to-release-epstein-files,Kaine Statement on Senate Passage of Bill to Release Epstein Files,2025-11-18,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,VA,Tim Kaine,K000384,www.kaine.senate.gov,kaine,https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine, a former civil rights attorney, released the following statement after the Senate unanimously passed the Epstein Files Transparency Act, legislation requiring the U.S. Department of Justice to release case files related to the late convicted child sex offender Jeffrey Epstein: “I am glad that my Senate colleagues unanimously supported this legislation to compel the DOJ to release the Epstein files. Once this becomes law, Congress and the American people will be watching closely to make sure the Justice Department complies with the letter and spirit of this legislation in good faith and without attempting to protect powerful people – including President Trump – whose names may appear in the case files. By bringing the truth to light about Epstein’s associates, this legislation will bring some small measure of justice for this monster’s many victims – who have been remarkably courageous in speaking out and demanding action from their elected leaders.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-statement-on-trumps-meeting-with-saudi-crown-prince-and-refusal-to-condemn-murder-of-jamal-khashoggi,Kaine Statement on Trump’s Meeting with Saudi Crown Prince and Refusal to Condemn Murder of Jamal Khashoggi,2025-11-18,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,VA,Tim Kaine,K000384,www.kaine.senate.gov,kaine,https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, released the following statement regarding President Donald Trump’s defense of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman after he was asked about the murder of journalist and Northern Virginia resident Jamal Khashoggi. President Trump said that “things happen” and MBS “knew nothing about it.” U.S. intelligence assessments found that the Crown Prince approved the operation to kill Khashoggi. “President Trump’s refusal today to condemn the Saudi Crown Prince’s role in Jamal Khashoggi’s murder is disgusting, and his comment that MBS ‘knew nothing about it’ goes against what our own intelligence agencies have found. Those involved in the killing of Khashoggi, who was a Virginia resident and journalist, should be held responsible,” said Kaine. “Instead of rolling out the red carpet for MBS and leveraging the presidency for private hotel deals, Trump should be demanding accountability on behalf of Khashoggi’s Virginia-based family and pressing Saudi Arabia to advance U.S. security interests. Unfortunately, this is just the most recent example of Trump placing his personal financial interests above the interest of the American people.” In October, Kaine introduced a resolution to commemorate the seventh anniversary of Khashoggi’s murder, which was directed by Saudi government officials. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/video-kaine-speaks-on-senate-floor-regarding-trumps-dismantling-of-department-of-education-and-impact-on-students-with-disabilities,Video: Kaine Speaks on Senate Floor Regarding Trump’s Dismantling of Department of Education and Impact on Students with Disabilities,2025-11-18,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,VA,Tim Kaine,K000384,www.kaine.senate.gov,kaine,https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news,scraper,"FULL VIDEO OF KAINE’S REMARKS IS AVAILABLE HERE. WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA), a member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee, spoke on the Senate floor regarding President Donald Trump’s attempts to gut the Department of Education and illegally shutter or move vital programming to other federal departments. During the speech, Kaine discussed the threats this would pose to students’ education, educators, and the economy, as well as the negative impacts for students with disabilities. Today marks 50 years since the Senate overwhelmingly passed the bipartisan Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)—known then as the Education for All Handicapped Children Act—landmark legislation that has guaranteed equal opportunities and protections for students with disabilities in education. Trump has threatened to shut down the Department’s administration and enforcement of IDEA as part of his efforts to gut the Department. “I want to spend my time more focused on the celebration of what this 50 years of the IDEA has done,” said Kaine. “Guess what the vote was in Congress around the passage of this law? In the Senate, the vote to pass this landmark civil rights and education law was 87 to seven, and in the House, the vote was 404 to seven. For a big landmark civil rights and education law to pass with that kind of a margin is really near miraculous. But the reason it passed so overwhelmingly is because society realized that we had been treating kids with disabilities in a very, very tragic and unforgivable way.” “In 1975, more than a million school-aged children in this country were essentially locked out of public education because of the fact that they had a disability,” Kaine said. “Think about that million, who has grown to seven million – nearly one in seven students in our public school system receive special education services – what the trajectory of their lives was like before the IDEA passed and after the IDEA passed.” Kaine continued, “Students with a designated disability under the IDEA receive an individualized education plan so that their particular disability can be focused in a meaningful way to enable them to be all that they can be. Isn’t that what we want for all children?” “Students who receive these services early in their educational careers often don’t need them for more than a couple of preschool years or early grades, and then they’re perfectly successful. The IDEA works,” Kaine said. “It works to enable these students who had been consigned to the shadows of life for generations to be able to achieve all that they can.” “There is uniform recognition in this country that the passage of IDEA and the 50 years of a commitment by this society that every child should be all that they can be is a good thing,” continued Kaine. “Can we make it better? Of course we can. But that bedrock promise made in 1975 is a good thing, and it has worked to enrich the lives now of tens of millions of people to make them as productive adults just like any of us aspire to be.” “I am very, very troubled by the underfunding,” said Kaine. “But I’m also very troubled by the actions of this Administration to shed the staff who are needed to work with states and work with local governments to make sure that services are being appropriately provided.” Kaine then told a story about how, at a hearing during the first Trump Administration, he asked then-nominee for Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos about IDEA, and she acknowledged that there was a federal commitment that any child with a disability – whatever ZIP code they live in – should be entitled to receive basic services. “That promise is being threatened by the firings and by the underfunding,” concluded Kaine. “So while I join with my colleagues in committing to continue to improve it, I don’t want this moment to be lost without acknowledging the tremendous good that has been done by this most bipartisan law to enrich the lives of tens of millions of children and their families.” As a member of HELP, Kaine has strongly pushed back against the Trump Administration’s efforts to gut the Department of Education. Earlier this month, Kaine and 29 of his colleagues pressed the Trump Administration to undo its efforts to shut down the Department’s administration and enforcement of IDEA. In September, Kaine and colleagues introduced the Protecting Students with Disabilities Act to ensure that special education programs remain within the federal Department of Education. In April, Kaine and colleagues wrote a letter to Secretary of Education Linda McMahon emphasizing the immense harm shuttering the Department of Education would have on the millions of students with disabilities across the United States, and he cosponsored the IDEA Full Funding Act, legislation that would ensure Congress fulfills its commitment to fully fund the IDEA. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/warner-kaine-call-on-leader-thune-to-quickly-bring-the-epstein-files-transparency-act-to-floor-for-vote,"Warner, Kaine Call on Leader Thune to Quickly Bring the Epstein Files Transparency Act to Floor for Vote",2025-11-18,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,VA,Tim Kaine,K000384,www.kaine.senate.gov,kaine,https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) joined their Senate Democratic colleagues in calling on Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) to immediately bring the Epstein Files Transparency Act to the Senate floor for a vote, without delay or unnecessary process distractions. Their letter follows the U.S. House of Representatives’ overwhelming bipartisan approval of the measure by a vote of 427-1. For more than two decades, survivors of Jeffrey Epstein have sought justice and accountability for his alleged sex trafficking crimes involving underage girls. The bipartisan legislation would require the Department of Justice (DOJ) to release all documents and records related to Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell, ensuring transparency and providing the American people with access to critical information. “The victims of Jeffrey Epstein – and the American people – deserve answers, accountability and the truth,” wrote the senators. “So far, they have only seen empty promises from President Trump and his Administration. Now that a majority of the U.S. House of Representatives has acted to provide transparency on this matter – we call on you to quickly hold a vote in the U.S. Senate to help deliver the accountability that was promised and that so many Americans are demanding.” “Despite multiple Senate oversight requests and House subpoenas for release of the full and complete Epstein files, the DOJ and FBI have refused to produce any information to the Senate and have failed to provide the complete set of files to the House,” wrote the senators. In a social media post over the weekend, President Donald J. Trump abruptly changed course and encouraged House Republicans to vote for the bill, despite having tried for months to prevent the complete release of the files. Given longstanding efforts by President Trump and his Administration to slow walk or discourage the release of these files, the Senate must take action to provide transparency and help restore the public’s trust. “The U.S. Senate has the chance to show strong leadership and swiftly pass this legislation,” concluded the senators. “We urge you to promptly proceed to the consideration of H.R. 4405 on the Senate floor pursuant to Senate Rule XIV, so that the legislation can be immediately placed on the Senate Calendar.” Joining Warner and Kaine in sending the letter were U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Chris Coons (D-DE), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Dick Durbin (D-IL), John Fetterman (D-PA), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Angus King (I-ME), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Ed Markey (D-MA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Patty Murray (D-WA), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Jack Reed (D-RI), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Tina Smith (D-MN), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Rev. Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Peter Welch (D-VT), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Ron Wyden (D-OR). The full text of the letter is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=4CBA4ADB-2E7A-4BE8-A650-0E48A73FF418,Sen. Warner Statement on the Epstein Files,2025-11-18,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,VA,Mark R. Warner,W000805,www.warner.senate.gov,warner,https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) released the following statement on the Senate’s unanimous vote to compel the Trump administration to release the Epstein files: “For years, Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell, abetted by a powerful circle of accomplices, committed heinous crimes against hundreds of girls and young women. Today, Congress has moved to end the months of obstruction by President Trump and shed more light on these horrific crimes and Epstein’s accomplices. “Make no mistake: Trump can and should have released these files months ago. Now that new details have emerged – including Epstein’s statement that Trump ‘knew about the girls’ – it’s easier to see why he decided to break his promise to release them. Instead, he’s rolled out stunt after stunt to try to change the subject. “No matter what obstruction Trump tries next, I will keep pressing for justice and accountability for Epstein’s victims and for full transparency with the American people.” ### * High-quality photographs of Sen. Mark R. Warner are available for downloadhere*",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=CD66849D-3410-42EF-8ACC-87526E4E665A,"Warner, Kaine Call on Leader Thune to Quickly Bring the Epstein Files Transparency Act to Floor for Vote",2025-11-18,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,VA,Mark R. Warner,W000805,www.warner.senate.gov,warner,https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases,scraper,"WASHINGTON — U.S. Sens Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) joined their Senate Democratic colleagues in calling on Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) to immediately bring the Epstein Files Transparency Act to the Senate floor for a vote, without delay or unnecessary process distractions. Their letter follows the U.S. House of Representatives’ overwhelming bipartisan approval of the measure by a vote of 427-1. For more than two decades, survivors of Jeffrey Epstein have sought justice and accountability for his alleged sex trafficking crimes involving underage girls. The bipartisan legislation would require the Department of Justice (DOJ) to release all documents and records related to Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell, ensuring transparency and providing the American people with access to critical information. “The victims of Jeffrey Epstein – and the American people – deserve answers, accountability and the truth,” wrote the senators. “So far, they have only seen empty promises from President Trump and his Administration. Now that a majority of the U.S. House of Representatives has acted to provide transparency on this matter – we call on you to quickly hold a vote in the U.S. Senate to help deliver the accountability that was promised and that so many Americans are demanding.” “Despite multiple Senate oversight requests and House subpoenas for release of the full and complete Epstein files, the DOJ and FBI have refused to produce any information to the Senate and have failed to provide the complete set of files to the House,” wrote the senators. In a social media post over the weekend, President Donald J. Trump abruptly changed course and encouraged House Republicans to vote for the bill, despite having tried for months to prevent the complete release of the files. Given longstanding efforts by President Trump and his Administration to slow walk or discourage the release of these files, the Senate must take action to provide transparency and help restore the public’s trust. “The U.S. Senate has the chance to show strong leadership and swiftly pass this legislation,” concluded the senators. “We urge you to promptly proceed to the consideration of H.R. 4405 on the Senate floor pursuant to Senate Rule XIV, so that the legislation can be immediately placed on the Senate Calendar.” Joining Sens. Warner and Kaine in sending the letter were Sens. Gary Peters (D-MI), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Chris Coons (D-DE), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Dick Durbin (D-IL), John Fetterman (D-PA), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Angus King (I-ME), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Ed Markey (D-MA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Patty Murray (D-WA), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Jack Reed (D-RI), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Tina Smith (D-MN), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Peter Welch (D-VT), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Ron Wyden (D-OR). The full text of the letter is available here. ### ‘* High-quality photographs of Sen. Mark R. Warner are available for downloadhere*",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/warner-kaine-and-colleagues-raise-alarm-over-trump-administration-efforts-to-restrict-mifepristone,"Warner, Kaine & Colleagues Raise Alarm Over Trump Administration Efforts to Restrict Mifepristone",2025-11-14,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,VA,Tim Kaine,K000384,www.kaine.senate.gov,kaine,https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine, a member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee, (both D-VA) joined Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) and all of their Democratic Senate colleagues in sending a letter to U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. and U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Commissioner Marty Makary expressing alarm over the Trump Administration's plans to reexamine the safety and effectiveness of mifepristone. Since 2000, mifepristone has been approved by the FDA as a safe and effective medication for abortion care and miscarriage management. The Administration’s basis for this review comes from a non-peer-reviewed and unsubstantiated “report” published by the Ethics and Public Policy Center (EPPC), a think tank known for its anti-abortion views. “Decades of evidence and hundreds of studies prove the safety and efficacy of mifepristone, which is not only the most common method of abortion in the U.S., but is also frequently prescribed to women to help manage early pregnancy loss or miscarriage. We are alarmed by the Department’s obvious attempts to politicize the review, regulation, and approval of mifepristone at the FDA, and we write to request more information,” the senators wrote. “By elevating the sham EPPC report as rationale for restricting access to mifepristone, HHS is blatantly undermining well-established science and weaponizing disinformation to fit the Trump administration’s clear agenda to cut off abortion access in any way possible,” the senators continued. “The bottom line is that access to mifepristone allows patients to receive time-sensitive, essential health care, including abortion care and miscarriage management,” the senators noted. “If HHS insists on rejecting the science that clearly proves mifepristone is safe and effective, and instead decides to impose additional restrictions on its use, this will force countless women to carry pregnancies to term against their will—regardless of the consequences for their health or lives.” “The American people need to be able to trust that any reviews, regulations, and approvals of medication by HHS and FDA are based on science and evidence—not on partisan attempts to attack abortion access,” the senators concluded. “It is critical that scientific experts and evidence are central to any FDA review or REMS initiative. Mifepristone has long been shown to be safe and effective, and there is no new evidence to justify burdensome restrictions that block women from getting the health care they need.” Following the Dobbs decision, Warner and Kaine have strongly advocated for legislation to protect Americans’ access to reproductive health care. In June, they introduced the Women’s Health Protection Act, legislation to guarantee access to abortion care across the country. The senators have also cosponsored legislation to protect the right of women to travel across state lines for abortion services and help protect medical providers from being punished for providing patients with this care. Kaine has also introduced the bipartisan Reproductive Freedom for All Act to protect abortion rights and contraception access. The full letter is available HERE and below: Dear Secretary Kennedy and Commissioner Makary, We write today with serious concerns about the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS or the Department) announcement that it will conduct, through the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), “its own review of the evidence” on the safety and effectiveness of mifepristone, which has been approved by the FDA since 2000 for the medical termination of pregnancy. Decades of evidence and hundreds of studies prove the safety and efficacy of mifepristone, which is not only the most common method of abortion in the U.S., but is also frequently prescribed to women to help manage early pregnancy loss or miscarriage. We are alarmed by the Department’s obvious attempts to politicize the review, regulation, and approval of mifepristone at the FDA, and we write to request more information on the details of the review of mifepristone. We are especially troubled by this administration’s clear intent to tee up further restrictions on medication abortion, in light of a recent federal court order holding that the agency has failed to justify its current extreme restrictions on mifepristone and must consider lifting them. In an April 28, 2025 letter, Senator Hawley called on the FDA to revisit its existing restrictions on mifepristone, alleging the “research showing the safety risks” of medication abortion are “far greater than the FDA currently acknowledges.” The same day, the avowedly anti-abortion think tank Ethics and Public Policy Center (EPPC) published a junk science “report” that parrots anti-abortion disinformation, was not peer-reviewed or published in any medical journal, and has been widely criticized by reputable health organizations. Based on apparently nothing but the nakedly partisan and easily debunked EPPC report, Commissioner Makary committed to conducting a new review of mifepristone in a June 2, 2025 letter. Secretary Kennedy and Commissioner Makary similarly sent a September 19, 2025 letter to Republican attorneys general, highlighting the EPPC report as alleged evidence of the “potential dangers that may attend offering mifepristone without sufficient medical support or supervision.” By elevating the sham EPPC report as rationale for restricting access to mifepristone, HHS is blatantly undermining well-established science and weaponizing disinformation to fit the Trump administration’s clear agenda to cut off abortion access in any way possible. Mifepristone has been proven to be safe and effective in hundreds of studies over more than two decades, and this has been backed up by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG)—which represents more than 90% of the nation’s OBGYNs, the American Medical Association (AMA), the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine, and the Society of Family Planning. While the EPPC report makes unsubstantiated claims about the rate of adverse events following medication abortion, the safety label for mifepristone clearly states that “serious adverse reactions were reported in <0.5% of women” in accordance with the data from 10 clinical trials of more than 30,000 women in settings in the U.S. and abroad. And, the FDA’s own website states that “the FDA’s periodic reviews of the postmarketing data for Mifeprex and its approved generic have not identified any new safety concerns with the use of mifepristone for medical termination of pregnancy through 70 days.” There are numerous serious methodological issues with the EPPC report, whose analyses cannot be verified or replicated due to EPPC’s failure to transparently share its data sources. As the Society of Family Planning stated in a May letter to Commissioner Makary, “this paper is not a methodologically rigorous, evidence-based resource, and does not warrant consideration, particularly in scientific spaces.” The FDA should be using gold-standard science and evidence when making decisions about medication access for the American people. Typically, the FDA relies on its Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) or other postmarketing surveillance data to consider the safety risk of a particular drug, not unverified claims from a debunked report. FDA relying on a partisan, sham report as part of the evidence review for any drug is deeply concerning—and in this case, it’s clear that the Trump administration is downright eager to do away with established science if it helps further their extreme anti-abortion agenda. It is also important to note that mifepristone is already subject to burdensome Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) requirements that must be followed for prescribing and dispensing mifepristone. The REMS already restricts the number of providers who can prescribe or dispense the drug, and the FDA already restricts mifepristone more heavily than 99.5% of the over 20,000 prescription drugs it regulates, making it more difficult for women to receive the timely access to care they need. On January 3, 2023, the FDA approved a modification to the mifepristone REMS, which included permanent removal of the requirement that the drug be dispensed in-person, and the addition of a new pharmacy certification process to allow qualified retail pharmacies to dispense mifepristone to patients with a prescription. These commonsense changes allow for improved access to mifepristone, yet the REMS criteria continues to impose unnecessary restrictions that cause administrative burdens for providers, which may impede their ability to provide the medication, thus impacting patient access. Leading health experts, including ACOG and the AMA, have long advocated for removal of the mifepristone REMS, given that the restrictions do not make care safer and are not based on medical evidence or need. ACOG argues these restrictions only create further barriers to abortion care and medical management of early pregnancy loss, particularly for communities that already face structural barriers to care. Abortion opponents are particularly focused on reinstating an “in-person dispensing” requirement for mifepristone. This would force every patient in the country to travel, in some cases hundreds of miles, to pick up the medication in-person at a health center. This mandate would apply even when the patient has been thoroughly evaluated and counseled by a licensed provider via telemedicine and there is no clinical reason to necessitate a health center visit, and even when it would be extremely burdensome or impossible to arrange the transportation, childcare, and time off work necessary for that in-person trip. Yet, as the FDA itself found, “there does not appear to be a difference in adverse events between periods when the in-person dispensing requirement was being enforced and periods when the in-person dispensing requirement was not being enforced. This suggests that mifepristone may be safely used without an in-person dispensing requirement.” On October 30, 2025, a federal court ruled in Purcell v. Kennedy that the FDA’s explanation for its current restrictions on mifepristone is unreasoned, unsupported, and illogical; that the FDA did not engage with the objections of preeminent medical associations like ACOG and AMA that the mifepristone REMS is medically unnecessary and harmful; and that the FDA ignored peer-reviewed research showing both that mifepristone remains extremely safe when regulated like other prescription drugs and that the FDA’s restrictions significantly reduce patient access. The court also found that the FDA failed to meaningfully address the guardrails that Congress imposed on the agency’s authority to impose a REMS. That court order reinforces that, in conducting this new review, FDA may not cherry-pick junk science serving an anti-abortion agenda, but must instead look at the full body of evidence both confirming mifepristone’s safety and underscoring the harms of the FDA’s onerous restrictions. The bottom line is that access to mifepristone allows patients to receive time-sensitive, essential health care, including abortion care and miscarriage management. Medication abortion is a critical option for patients who want to end their pregnancy in a place of their choosing, with access to the medical support and information they need. This option is particularly essential for patients who live in remote or rural areas and those who already face barriers to care due to inequities in our country’s health care system. If HHS insists on rejecting the science that clearly proves mifepristone is safe and effective, and instead decides to impose additional restrictions on its use, this will force countless women to carry pregnancies to term against their will—regardless of the consequences for their health or lives. As you review the evidence regarding the safety and efficacy of mifepristone, we request responses to the following questions by November 28, 2025: Following the March 6, 2025 HELP Committee hearing to consider Dr. Makary’s nomination to be FDA Commissioner, he was asked, in a question for the record, if he planned to make any changes to how mifepristone can be prescribed, dispensed, or accessed. He responded: “I have no immediate plans to make changes to regulation of any specific products and would not do so without a fulsome review of safety and efficacy data.” What qualifies as a “fulsome review of safety and efficacy data?” What prompted the Department to initiate the recent review of mifepristone? What studies or data are HHS or FDA relying on to justify restrictions on mifepristone, including but not limited to, initiating a new review of mifepristone? Have any mifepristone manufacturers communicated to HHS or FDA any changes in the safety and efficacy data for their products? What process will you use to conduct this review? Will you solicit unbiased expert review and public comment through advisory committees, expert review panels, public workshops, a request for information, the federal rulemaking process, or other avenues? If utilizing an expert review panel, how will you establish that members have relevant expertise, including recent experience prescribing mifepristone? If utilizing an advisory committee, does HHS commit to following all statutory requirements of the Federal Advisory Committee Act (FACA; 5 U.S.C. Chapter 10)? Please list all procedural steps you intend to take in the review of mifepristone to ensure public participation and review of all relevant data. How will you ensure that this review is based on the best available science? For example, will the agency consider only studies that have undergone peer review? How will you ensure that the review is consistent with the court order in Purcell v. Kennedy and FDA’s limited authority under 21 U.S.C § 355-1(a), (f), and (g)? The FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) documents any reported adverse events to specific prescription drugs approved by the FDA. Does the agency have additional unreported data on adverse events that it is considering in initiating its new review of mifepristone? If yes, will the agency release the unreported data to the public and to the signatories of this letter? A recent letter led by Senator Cassidy documented several statements from Secretary Kennedy on mifepristone in a September 4, 2025 Finance Committee hearing. Secretary Kennedy claimed the Biden administration “twisted the data” to bury one of the safety signals for mifepristone and that the signal showed an approximately 11% adverse event risk. Please respond to this letter with the same information you provide in response to Senator Cassidy’s letter. Senator Cassidy asked a question regarding a statement by Secretary Kennedy in the same Finance Committee hearing, indicating studies relating to the safety of mifepristone are “progressing and that they’re ongoing.” Please respond to this letter with the same answer you provide to Senator Cassidy regarding the details of these studies, including the scope, expected timeframe, agencies involved, and type of study. At the close of the same Finance Committee hearing, Ranking Member Wyden inquired about Secretary Kennedy’s planned mifepristone review which is “not based on new clinical trials or data from the scientific community,” but based on one non-peer-reviewed paper from an anti-abortion political organization. Secretary Kennedy responded by committing to “good science and good scientists” as part of this needless safety review. Please explain how the Secretary intends to meet this commitment and if the preeminent medical professional associations (i.e. ACOG, AMA) will be consulted as part of the review. The American people need to be able to trust that any reviews, regulations, and approvals of medication by HHS and FDA are based on science and evidence—not on partisan attempts to attack abortion access. We are seriously alarmed by this administration’s obvious attempts to interfere with the science and politicize the drug review process in order to restrict abortion access. It is critical that scientific experts and evidence are central to any FDA review or REMS initiative. Mifepristone has long been shown to be safe and effective, and there is no new evidence to justify burdensome restrictions that block women from getting the health care they need. Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter and we look forward to your response. Sincerely, ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-joins-bicameral-effort-urging-court-to-uphold-temporary-protected-status-for-venezuela,Kaine Joins Bicameral Effort Urging Court to Uphold Temporary Protected Status for Venezuela,2025-11-13,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,VA,Tim Kaine,K000384,www.kaine.senate.gov,kaine,https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, joined a bicameral group of lawmakers in submitting an amicus brief to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit in the case of National TPS Alliance et al. v. Noem, urging the reversal of the Trump Administration’s baseless decision to vacate and terminate the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) designation for Venezuela. First granted for Venezuela in 2021, TPS has provided approximately 600,000 Venezuelans in the U.S. with refuge from economic turmoil and humanitarian crisis in their home country and authorized Venezuelans to live and work legally in America. A District Court ruled in September that the Trump Administration’s decision to vacate and terminate Venezuela’s TPS designation was unlawful. After the Trump Administration appealed the decision to the Supreme Court to request a stay of that ruling, the Supreme Court later sided with the Administration–allowing the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to continue stripping Venezuelans of their protections to remain lawfully in the U.S. while the case is fully considered in the Ninth Circuit. As they argued in their amicus brief submitted to the Supreme Court, the lawmakers stressed to the Ninth Circuit that the District Court correctly ruled in alignment with the intent of Congress – that the Executive Branch is to determine humanitarian protections such as TPS according to set criteria as opposed to political preferences. “The Northern District of California properly determined that the plain text of the TPS statute does not support the Secretary’s argument that her actions are unreviewable. Nor does it support the Secretary’s actions with respect to Venezuelan TPS. Instead, the Executive Branch’s interpretation of the TPS statute essentially rewrites the statute to claim a power that Congress did not delegate to the Executive Branch,” the lawmakers wrote. They also pointed to Congress’ tradition of bipartisan support for TPS and for protecting law-abiding individuals from being sent into harm’s way, writing, “The Secretary’s actions not only violate the TPS statute but also contradict the bipartisan opposition to terminating Venezuela TPS.” The lawmakers continued, “Members of Congress on both sides of the aisle have long supported temporary protected status for Venezuelans who fled dangerous conditions in their country – conditions that persist today.” The amicus brief was led by U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) and U.S. Representative Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL-25). In addition to Kaine, a group of more than 120 lawmakers from both chambers of Congress joined the brief. The full text of the amicus brief is available here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/warner-and-kaine-new-report-shows-energy-prices-skyrocketing-under-trump,Warner and Kaine: New Report Shows Energy Prices Skyrocketing Under Trump,2025-11-13,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,VA,Tim Kaine,K000384,www.kaine.senate.gov,kaine,https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) slammed the Trump Administration after a new report showed that energy prices are increasing under the Trump Administration. In Virginia, households are paying on average $130 more– a 7.3 percent increase – in annual energy costs compared to last year. This comes after President Donald Trump declared an “energy emergency” to cancel clean energy projects across the country. “President Trump promised Americans lower costs, energy independence, and more good paying jobs, yet he is canceling energy projects across Virginia and the country, triggering higher utility bills, weakening the American power grid, growing our reliance on foreign energy, and cutting jobs,” said Warner. “In the Senate, my Democratic colleagues and I are focused on diversifying America’s energy sources, and we’re going to continue doing everything we can to lower utility costs for families.” “The U.S. was producing more energy than any country in the world, but on President Trump’s first day in office, he declared an ‘energy emergency’ to cancel clean energy projects across the country, including in Virginia. I’ve forced votes in the Senate to overturn this sham emergency, but my Republican colleagues have refused to do so,” said Kaine. “Now, Americans are paying the price. This new report underscores what I’ve been saying all along: we must stop President Trump’s war on American-made energy that is killing jobs and raising energy costs for Virginians.” Democrats have made significant investments in clean energy, spurring the highest levels of factory construction in U.S. history with more than 400,000 new jobs announced across the country. However, Trump’s “energy emergency” and Republicans’ rollback of provisions in the Inflation Reduction Act are killing these new jobs, weakening the power grid, increasing our reliance on foreign energy, and raising energy costs. In February and September 2025, Kaine introduced and Warner supported legislation that would have terminated Trump’s energy emergency declaration; Senate Republicans voted down the bill both times. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=6CC47BAD-7D7B-4542-ADA9-5E0D5DF39FC2,Warner and Kaine: New Report Shows Energy Prices Skyrocketing Under Trump,2025-11-13,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,VA,Mark R. Warner,W000805,www.warner.senate.gov,warner,https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) slammed the Trump Administration after a new report showed that energy prices are increasing under the Trump Administration. In Virginia, households are paying on average $130 more– a 7.3 percent increase – in annual energy costs compared to last year. This comes after President Donald Trump declared an “energy emergency” to cancel clean energy projects across the country. “President Trump promised Americans lower costs, energy independence, and more good paying jobs, yet he is canceling energy projects across Virginia and the country, triggering higher utility bills, weakening the American power grid, growing our reliance on foreign energy, and cutting jobs,” said Sen. Warner. “In the Senate, my Democratic colleagues and I are focused on diversifying America’s energy sources, and we’re going to continue doing everything we can to lower utility costs for families.” “The U.S. was producing more energy than any country in the world, but on President Trump’s first day in office, he declared an ‘energy emergency’ to cancel clean energy projects across the country, including in Virginia. I’ve forced votes in the Senate to overturn this sham emergency, but my Republican colleagues have refused to do so,” said Sen. Kaine. “Now, Americans are paying the price. This new report underscores what I’ve been saying all along: we must stop President Trump’s war on American-made energy that is killing jobs and raising energy costs for Virginians.” Democrats have made significant investments in clean energy, spurring the highest levels of factory construction in U.S. history with more than 400,000 new jobs announced across the country. However, Trump’s “energy emergency” and Republicans’ rollback of provisions in the Inflation Reduction Act are killing these new jobs, weakening the power grid, increasing our reliance on foreign energy, and raising energy costs. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-statement-on-funding-deal-to-reopen-government-protect-federal-employees-and-vote-to-protect-health-care,"Kaine Statement on Funding Deal to Reopen Government, Protect Federal Employees, and Vote to Protect Health Care",2025-11-09,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,VA,Tim Kaine,K000384,www.kaine.senate.gov,kaine,https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA) released the following statement announcing he will vote to advance legislation to reopen the government and protect federal employees and vote to protect Americans’ health care: “I have long said that to earn my vote, we need to be on a path toward fixing Republicans’ health care mess and to protect the federal workforce. “This deal guarantees a vote to extend Affordable Care Act premium tax credits, which Republicans weren’t willing to do. Lawmakers know their constituents expect them to vote for it, and if they don’t, they could very well be replaced at the ballot box by someone who will. “This legislation will protect federal workers from baseless firings, reinstate those who have been wrongfully terminated during the shutdown, and ensure federal workers receive back pay, as required by a law I got passed in 2019. That’s a critical step that will help federal employees and all Americans who rely on government services. I’ll keep working towards a long-term government spending plan that includes critical priorities to support Virginians and funding for Virginia community projects.” The legislation includes provisions Kaine fought for to protect the federal workforce, including rehiring federal employees who were terminated during the shutdown, providing back pay for all federal employees regardless of their status, and preventing future Reductions in Force (RIFs). ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=1B09CF87-616E-422F-B188-1596C68D5379,Sen. Warner to Oppose Republican CR,2025-11-09,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,VA,Mark R. Warner,W000805,www.warner.senate.gov,warner,https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) released the following statement: “Every day this shutdown drags on, Virginians feel it, from federal workers struggling to pay their bills to families unsure how they will put food on the table because this administration is cruelly and deliberately withholding the assistance they need. I want nothing more than to reopen the government, get folks back to work, and end the needless hardship this Republican shutdown is causing. “I appreciate that this proposal includes important language preventing further mass layoffs of federal employees. That’s a critical step in protecting our public servants from this administration’s campaign of retribution, and something I’ve long pushed for. “But I cannot support a deal that still leaves millions of Americans wondering how they are going to pay for their health care or whether they will be able to afford to get sick. We owe the American people more than a short-term fix that leaves working families staring down a health care crisis, and simply kicking the can down the road is not good enough. Families are already struggling with rising prices on everything from groceries to housing. I will keep working in the Senate to bring costs down and relieve the pressure on working families who are already paying more because of President Trump’s policies that are driving prices up instead of lowering them.” ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/senators-act-to-bar-mass-layoffs-during-government-shutdown,Senators Act to Bar Mass Layoffs During Government Shutdown,2025-11-06,2025,2025-11,Democrat,Senate,VA,Tim Kaine,K000384,www.kaine.senate.gov,kaine,https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner (D-VA), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), and Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD) introduced the Securing Assurance for Federal Employees (SAFE) Act, legislation to explicitly prohibit the federal government from carrying out reductions in force (RIFs) during a lapse in appropriations. The bill would also reverse RIF actions taken during the current government shutdown. The SAFE Act comes in response to recent efforts by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to initiate thousands of RIFs during the ongoing shutdown – an unprecedented step that a federal judge has already said appears “politically motivated,” illegal, and “arbitrary and capricious.” More than 4,000 federal employees have received RIF notices since early October. While the court has temporarily blocked these actions, the threat remains for many other federal employees serving the American public without pay during this shutdown. Current law does not permit agencies to conduct RIFs during a lapse in appropriations. This bill reaffirms and makes explicit Congress’s intent that no administration may use a shutdown as a pretext to initiate layoffs. The SAFE Act makes clear that such actions have no legal force and ensures federal workers cannot be targeted for job cuts during a funding lapse. “Our civil servants take an oath to serve the American people, not a political party or a president. Weaponizing a shutdown to push out career professionals is not only wrong, it’s unlawful and dangerous for our democracy,” said Warner. “This bill makes clear that no administration can use manufactured chaos as a backdoor way to purge the federal workforce.” “Donald Trump and Russ Vought have been deliberately inflicting trauma on our patriotic civil servants since day one, jeopardizing the important work they do on behalf of the American people. This legislation will stop this Administration from weaponizing their shameful shutdown to further their lawless agenda while playing politics with the lives and livelihoods of civil servants and the vital services they provide,” said Van Hollen. “Despite court orders and legal precedent, the Trump administration continues to play politics with Americans’ lives during the Republican shutdown,” said Leader Schumer. “The erratic slash-and-burn approach to the federal workforce has already caused chaos—firing dedicated public servants one week, only to rehire them the next. It’s reckless, it’s cruel, and it’s illegal. The SAFE Act will put an end to these politically motivated firings during a shutdown once and for all and make Congress’s intent unmistakably clear: no president can weaponize a shutdown to punish federal workers.” “Trump is using RIFs as a political tool to punish hardworking federal workers and their families during this Republican shutdown, sowing chaos for hundreds of thousands of people,” said Hirono. “I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing this legislation to combat this Administration’s lawlessness and protect the jobs and livelihoods of crucial federal employees.” “Since day one, the Trump Administration has fired thousands of federal employees,” said Kaine. “Our dedicated federal workers—and Americans across the country who rely on their service and expertise—deserve better, and that’s why I’m introducing legislation to prevent any administration from laying off federal employees during a shutdown.” “This President and his Administration have spent the last 10 months attacking our patriotic civil servants – laying off swaths of federal workers, canceling grants and funding that their work relies on, and now shutting down our government, leaving federal workers without pay. Russell Vought has said he wants our federal workers to feel trauma. It’s cruel, callous, and un-American. That’s why I’m proud to introduce the SAFE Act to prevent mass firings and stop this President from inflicting even more trauma on our federal workers, and the people they serve – the American people,” said Alsobrooks. The bill is also sponsored by U.S. Senators Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), and Andy Kim (D-NJ). The legislation is endorsed by the American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO), American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), American Federation of State, County & Municipal Employees (AFSCME), International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers (IFPTE), National Education Association (NEA), National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE), National Treasury Employees Union (NTEU), and Service Employees International Union (SEIU). “NTEU strongly supports the Securing Assurance for Federal Employees Act which would ban mass layoffs of federal employees during a government shutdown. The SAFE Act would be a strong compliment to the court-ordered injunction now in place against such layoffs. To be furloughed without pay and receive a layoff notice is devastating to federal employees who simply want to do the job they were hired to do and serve their country,” said Doreen Greenwald, National President of the National Treasury Employees Union. “IFPTE wholeheartedly backs the SAFE Act, sponsored by Senator Warner, which would stop the Trump Administration from laying off federal workers during a shutdown. Simply stated, initiating Reductions in Force (RIFs) during a shutdown is unprecedented, illegal, and immoral. The SAFE Act is necessary to rein in the callous and unlawful effort to RIF federal workers, and IFPTE asks all Senators to support this legislation,” said Matt Biggs, President of the International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers (IFPTE). Read the full bill here. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:52:45Z